Todd Palin Subpoenaed! Updated.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted 3-2 today to subpoena 13 people — including the husband of Gov. Sarah Palin — in an investigation of whether Palin abused her power in trying to get her former brother-in-law fired.

Special investigator Stephen Branchflower said that Todd Palin is “such a central figure” in the investigation that he should be issued a subpoena.

A total of 13 subpoenas were issued authorized and also the cell phone records of Frank “the Pressurizer” Bailey whose taped phone call to the Troopers ramped up “Troopergate” to a new level.

Sarah Palin will not be subpoenaed, but Branchflower has said that he wants to interview her.

This is getting really really interesting….. More details as they become available.

UPDATE:

Here are the other individuals who were authorized to receive a subpoena:

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577 responses

12092008

Fiona(12:14:55) :

I have to be honest – at first I was ambivalent about Palin. But this Troopergate thing stinks of foul play. Also when you look at McCain in this light, it makes my blood boil. Independent women everywhere should read this!

I’ll sit tight (as I have been glued to your posts as of late). I’ve had to replenish my microwave popcorn supply. Loved your post coving her interview with “Charleee” and hope you follow up with more on “The Sara Chronicles.”

12092008

MJC(12:19:40) :

AKMuckraker,
What about the 1100 e-mails Palin is withholding? Any news on that?

12092008

Erin(12:20:05) :

Awesome. Thanks for the update. I’ll be waiting to hear more…and thanks for entering the AWRP Sign Slogan Contest. So far, you’re winning (that’s what happens when no one else enters…).

12092008

MH(12:23:31) :

$100 donation to the Obama campaign bet that the subpoenas are quashed.

BUT I hope that doing so takes this scandal to the next order of magnitude in the public consciousness.

Attention, Alaskan Republicans: IT’S NOT THE CRIME. IT’S THE COVER-UP!

12092008

Diva(12:24:23) :

Good job, Branchflower!

Sometimes, it’s not the crime but the cover-up that brings these jerks down!

Keep up the pressure, Alaskans! The lower 48 is rooting for you!

(not to mention, we are desperately counting on you to save us all from that nut-job getting anywhere near the White House!)

It’s not unethical in the non-legal sense fire someone you don’t like. It happens every day in corporate America. The brother-in-law Tasered his stepson and who was spotted drinking in his patrol car, and may have threatened Palin’s father with a gun.

If this action is illegal, then it’s because it violates some technicality of Alaska law.

12092008

lemonfair(12:26:30) :

mjc – akm

Some of the 1100 emails were cc’d to Todd Palin. Emails he receives are not protected by executive privilege under any stretch, so those emails should be available.

Not sure what they do about their not being still in his archived emails, but they should be available from SP. No?

Speaking of supporting Alaskans – I guess we have to figure out how to support Alaskans if/when they end up with Sarah Palin as their governor still because she’s defeated for VP. Pledge to give financial support to whoever opposes her in elections? I’m in, modest though it will have to be.

12092008

Susie in Jersey(12:31:24) :

Fiona, you know the old saying “where there is smoke, there is fire” and there’s so much smoke blowing from the Palin and McCain camps that you KNOW there’s got to be a good-sized fire someplace.

I still believe she will self-destruct.

12092008

Mil(12:31:29) :

lol, it was only a matter of time. Thank you AKM!!

12092008

lemonfair(12:32:01) :

Half Sigma – I remind you that we basically have Sarah Palin’s version of what her brother-in-law did, not his. He has insisted, e.g., that he has not driven under the influence.

Doesn’t it seem strange that with all Sarah Palin’s power, her brother-in-law wouldn’t have been fired if he actually did all the things Sarah Palin suggested? I’ve gotta assume he didn’t do some of that stuff. Apparently no other complaint has ever come in about him.

12092008

nswfm(12:32:33) :

May justice prevail against these criminals.

Fer cryin’ out loud, the bar was set so low by the previous crook, no wonder she won.

12092008

Diva(12:32:58) :

MH-

LOL! Great minds and all that…..

Ironically, interest in the “cover-up” of CindyLouWho’s drug stealing problem is heating up.

Seems Cindy couldn’t keep her story straight:

“ERRORS IN FIRST PERSON ACCOUNT

McCain’s drug use became national news during her husband’s first presidential campaign in 2000. Newsweek published a first-person account of her struggle, but it included some errors.

“It began with Vicodan [sic]. In 1989, I had ruptured a couple of disks carrying my 1-year-old, Bridget, in a pack on my back,” she wrote.

But Bridget was not born until 1991. In other accounts, McCain said she hurt her back while picking up her son Jimmy, who was a toddler at the time of her injuries. ”

Yes, majority Republican. The vote was 3-2, two Ds and one R, against 2 Rs. AKM

12092008

BullwinkleCringing(12:33:39) :

Will she pull a full W and claim executive privilege?
Will she really cooperate in this investigation?
Will she ever do another interview? (not counting FOX)
Will the Russians invade Alaska?
Will the “straight talk” express ever get out of the mud?
Can pigs fly when they have lipstick on?

There’s no reason to refuse to talk to legitimate investigators unless you are afraid that something you know will implicate someone (you or another) in something illegal, quasi-legal, or at the very least, damn embarrassing.

Is this how YOU will run the VP office if you get elected, Sarah? You are sounding more and more like Darth Cheney every day. We still don’t have a clue what Darth does as VP because he claims nobody has a right to find out. *boggle* So much for reform in government. Sounds very much like more of the same.

12092008

sanpoil(12:36:01) :

the emails, in large part because they were copied to Todd Palin, a private citizen and therefore disqualifies executive privilege, so they *should* be available, yes.

In a perfect, just, fair world where there is no dirty pool. I suggest we don’t hold our collective breath on any of this, but hope due diligence wins out over stonewalling.

It’s really not a matter of proving Palin evil and wicked, but making sure all the evidence is available in order to determine what, if anything, happened.

The refusal to cooperate really frosts me.

12092008

Cassie(12:36:52) :

Lemonfair

We can support Alaskans by making sure this whole group does time. People will elect whomever they want, but if you have to serve your office from jail, it just tends to put a crimp in things.

12092008

bethincary(12:37:40) :

Mudflats–You and you’re fellow Alaskans rock!!
Keep on keepin on-day at a time…
Not worried..

You’re a piece of the puzzle in getting our country back on track, in which we all play a part- so thanks for your part.
On behalf of lots of new readers here-a heartfelt “Thank you”.
Rovian politics/lies-lessons NOT learned-greed/corruption–
Patience readers-it’ll be exposed.
again, thanks for your part Mud.
Prayers/good thoughts for those in Texas.

12092008

NoCalGal(12:37:54) :

MH I will take that bet! 🙂 the Subpoenas will go forward.. and if they have nothing to hide.. they should WELCOME the investigation to “clear” their name…

win or lose the bet I will contribute $100 to Obama/Biden… wonder when they will go out, and when this will all unfold…

12092008

NoCalGal(12:39:40) :

P.S. The privilege thing is interesting.. he is NOT protected by executive privilege, and she may have viloated governmental policy by cc:ing her spouse… but there is another privilege.. will it hold??? That is SPOUSAL privilege. Communications between husband and wife are privileged too…

wonder how THAT will factor in.

12092008

Cassie(12:39:50) :

Diva

Cindy’s narrative about who suggested she adopt her daughter changed, too, and I would have thought that would be easy to remember. It went from Mother Teresa’s Orphanage….to Mother Teresa herself…then back to the Orphanage when she got caught in the lie.

12092008

Diva(12:40:04) :

This is O/T but it bears posting again.

John & CindyLouWho get hammered by the ladies of “The View this morning!

And HOW did Lesil get on that SJC??? Wow! I guess because of her unique ‘insider’ information.

If Palin’s Von Fleeing fights these subpoenas as he WILL do, how much more do Americans need to see a pattern here?

I guess we’ll ‘learn’ how much more tonight on ABC. Should be fun/sad watching our gov squirm and recite her lines regardless of the question asked by Charleeee.

12092008

oklahoma independent(12:40:10) :

Stupid question, and I hope someone replies with “there are no stupid questions,” so if she is found to have abused her power (guilty) what is the next step? My fear is that if she is guilty, the GOP will trivialize it and make the trooper into the villian and make poor Sarah the victim. Our nation of sheep will fall for it.
On a feel-good note, 19:1, that is the ratio of Obama to McCain yard signs in my neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and we are in the heart of conservative country.

12092008

mmiddle(12:40:14) :

@ Half Sigma:
<>

Yes, termination at will is the rule, but it’s a bad one, and since when does corporate America set the standard for public officials? the allegations constitute an abuse of power, pure and simple.

Could you imagine if this was Michelle Obama SUBPOENAED ??!! OMG she could be called in for a traffic ticket and it would be headlines everywhere.

12092008

shilo(12:42:45) :

Do all the women really want palin and mccain to make a choice for them, it’s like being married and having your husband tell you what to do all the time.
AND MOM”S MCCAIN does want the DRAFT back , the pro- life mavericks that kill your kids after their babies. Palin is a fake, this is not a personality contest, only a teen age pagent contestant would have answered. Whats your insight on Russia………….., her relpy OH Charlie I can see Russia from here (Alaska). I hope her troopergate squashes Mccain. Cindy has the same cover up with her drugs and how many people she backstabbed, and mccains cover up.

12092008

jwa(12:43:18) :

I’ve been waiting for this. He has been named as involved from the beginning. And given his non-status as an official of the state gov, he should not be able to claim any protection.

Half Sigma: Actually, I think it IS unethical to fire someone you don’t like. I think termination from a job should relate to on-the-job performance not simply personal issues. The man in charge of the troopers did bring disciplinary actions against the trooper, but that wasn’t enough for pit bull Sarah. So she fired the director for not axing the trooper. Was his refusal to fire the trooper a dereliction of his duty and was the governor’s action justified? We’ll see what the investigation shows.

12092008

Judi B(12:43:40) :

I will throw some money behind that, too.

You know, I don’t have anything against small towns. I grew up in a REALLY small town (google: Heath MA) right on the VT border in MA. One church (my dad was the preacher – UCC, folks) a grange hall, a country store, a Post Office and many, many farms. I loved that little town and all the people in it. I am blessed to have had the experience of riding my pony to school, snow that did not melt till April, casserole dinners, country hay rides, maple sugar parties and close family ties. However, there is NOBODY, including myself, that I would consider appropriate material for VP from that small town. There is no way any one of us could relate and I can almost guarantee everyone in Heath would agree.

Oh, and by the way, I live right across the river from NYC now, and STILL would not presume.

12092008

Diva(12:43:43) :

Cassie, Oh what a tangled life we lead when first we practice to deceive!

BTW, I love how he sprints out on the stage, anticipating the usual “puff” interview!

I’ve been waiting for this. I knew they would end up getting him into the courtroom on this, I just wish they would subpoena Sarah too, and have her testify hooked up to a polygraph, I already know that the hand on the bible bit wouldn’t get the truth out of her.
Come to think of it, she should be hooked to a polygraph for all of her interviews and speeches too. And so should Mr. “I’ve voted with the president over 90% of the time” champion brown noser McCain.

12092008

Amused and Bewildered(12:47:52) :

WOW.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted 3-2 today to subpoena 13 people — including the husband of Gov. Sarah Palin — in an investigation of whether Palin abused her power in trying to get her former brother-in-law fired.

3-2. Close call…

12092008

mpalm(12:47:59) :

Probably too late to have any effect on the election. I have heard that all the people who have been subpoenaed are lawyered up. They will be placing motions to have the subpoenas quashed. Nothing will get done in the near term.

Will she pull a full W and claim executive privilege?
Will she really cooperate in this investigation?
Will she ever do another interview? (not counting FOX)
Will the Russians invade Alaska?
Will the “straight talk” express ever get out of the mud?
Can pigs fly when they have lipstick on?”

I can’t answer all of your questions right now but I can tell you that if Russia doesn’t invade Alaska, she will try to get Alaska to invade Russia.

12092008

LibertyLover(12:50:20) :

Ah, but the wheels of justice move sooo slowly. All they have to do is drag it out…

… and I don’t think at this point that it will matter much to the wingers… but maybe a few of the independents will be swayed. At least the ones paying attention.

12092008

lemonfair(12:50:41) :

Cassie – yes, I’d love that too. But it sounds like the likelihood of anyone but Stevens doing time is pretty slim.

I just want to see those emails Sarah copied to Todd. Please God.

12092008

Cassie(12:52:04) :

mpalm (12:47:59) :

Even if it’s not too late, Dubya could always pardon the whole lot and she could also have that distinction as she is sworn in.

Please, oh please vote Obama/Biden!

AKM, we’re indebted to you. None of this would mean anything to us without your painstaking explanations.

12092008

lemonfair(12:52:07) :

Judi B

Boy, that’s a good description of a small New England town – of half a century ago I’m guessing?

I’m from northern Vermont, but you’ve made me homesick for a time more than a place. Thanks.

Sen. Charlie Huggins, a Republican from Palin’s hometown of Wasilla, appeared in camouflage pants on a short break from moose hunting to cast his vote. He lamented the political maneuvering that he saw as trying to interfere with the investigation.

“I see all this duck-foot action under the water,” Huggins said. “Let’s just get the facts on the table.

12092008

BigSkyGirl(12:58:21) :

Woohoo! Troopergate gets more and more interesting by the day…can’t wait to see what happens.

Here is a bit about the Wasilla Police Chief Irl Stambaugh from the Seattle Times regarding bar closings: Palin fires Strambaugh for “not supporting her”.

“In the summer of 1996, Stambaugh encouraged Wasilla and the Mat-Su Borough, the regional governing body, to pass ordinances requiring bars and liquor stores to close earlier than 5 a.m., the latest hour allowed by state law. Because bars in Anchorage closed earlier, some people drove to Wasilla to keep drinking, endangering themselves and others, Stambaugh argued. He wanted Wasilla’s bars to close at 2:30 a.m. on weekdays and 3 a.m. on weekends.

The idea’s supporters talked of reducing roadway fatalities. Opponents talked of an encroachment on their individual freedom. The borough’s leadership rejected the proposal, and afterward so did the Wasilla City Council, by a 3-2 vote. Palin was in the majority.”

Will Palin fire McCain for not supporting her on Stem-Cell Research? Only Todd knows!

**I haven’t mentioned this, but when Monegan was fired, he was actually offered another lower position….wait for it….as head of the Alcohol Control Board. And he was supposedly fired for not doing enough… Another hole in the giant hunk of swiss cheese that is Sarah Palin.
AKM

12092008

Groundhogday(12:59:36) :

“The brother-in-law Tasered his stepson and who was spotted drinking in his patrol car, and may have threatened Palin’s father with a gun.”

The ONLY people to ever file complaints about Trooper Wooten are the Palin/Heath family. The same family that was warned by a judge to stop slandering Wooten with lies. Things that make you go hmmmmmm……

12092008

Judi B(13:01:25) :

Lemonfair: Yes, as a matter of fact, 1950’s. However my husband and I drive up there every few years in the fall to see the glorious maple leaves, and it is still the same! It does now have a wind farm, though. Typing that made me homesick for both time and place, too, BUT, do not forget the horrid McCarthy red scare that was going on then.

12092008

Anonymous(13:05:13) :

This is great news, no matter what happens! Her HUSBAND is now officially in the mix. Their legal concerns must be VERY distracting now.

12092008

mvngfwd(13:06:02) :

You can run but you cannot hide forever! Instead of 660,000 people looking at this situation, by accepting the nomination, she just made that 301,139,947 inquiring minds. Nice! Did anyone catch McCain announcing that he will overturn Roe vs Wade on “the View” if he becomes Pres!!! I’m sure that scared a few of their viewers.

12092008

mpalm(13:06:49) :

HI Diva,
Why is it that shows like The View are asking the tough questions? Where are the news organizations? Chaaarly could have done a much better job last night.

To the MSM: Get off your butts and do your danged jobs!!!

12092008

Karen(13:07:49) :

I’ve read about her having to hire someone to manage Wasilla when she was mayor but don’t think I’ve ever heard it mentioned in the MSM. It really should be put out there. From ProgressiveAlaska blog:

“Like when she got elected Mayor of Wasilla, to begin with. Her predecessor, John Stein had been able to administer the small town. She couldn’t, so she hired a city manager to do it for her, doubling the expense her job cost Wasilla. She spent the extra time building her political base. I watched it happen. But I missed a lot.”

I’m here in Houston waiting for Ike and dreading losing power and my internet connection. Wish us all luck!

12092008

Lola(13:07:56) :

jill (12:33:25) :
So how does the Palin camp fight a subpoena of Todd? He’s not an elected official and is not a government employee. I don’t see hoe the leg can argue that he should not respond to the subpoena.

““““““““““““““““““““““““`
Jill, my friend, you have forgotten that he is in fact the “First Dude”. In Sarah Palins view that means he is privy to all government information and excused from all wrong doing. 🙂

12092008

patriot games(13:11:09) :

on what grounds can they ask for the subpoenas to be quashed? they can try, but a really bad argument will make them look worse.

Monegan and others have already testified and provided documents. the legislature can release information from those sources to push cooperation.

Todd Palin cannot claim privilege for spousal communications when those communications are also addressed to multiple recipients who are not his spouse.

Likewise, executive privilege crumbles when relatives without official positions are on the address list. First dude is not an official position. Oops.

Furthermore, Van Flein’s insistence that Branchflower announce that he and the legislature agree that the Gov can legally ask staff to look at confidential personnel files almost certainly means that the documents show that Palin did just that – had underlings investigate ex-bro-in-law Wooten.

I think this has legs, even if criminal charges don’t come out of it.

Do you want a First Dude who is given access to classified documents or FBI and IRS files?????

Let’s talk about executive experience, huh?

Cheers to Mudflats!

12092008

Diva(13:12:39) :

mpalm-

Totally agree that the MSM has become fat & lazy at the feet of their masters, The Corporations who own them.

That said, I didn’t hate the Gibson interview, at least what snip-its I’ve seen so far. I totally expected to, but Charlie surprised me. In my opinion, he seemed to barely be able to control channeling Dan Akroyd’s SNL bit- “Jane, you ignorant slut!”

But there’s always hope for Part 2 tonight!🙂

12092008

Lola(13:13:03) :

BullwinkleCringing (12:33:39) :
Will she pull a full W and claim executive privilege?
Will she really cooperate in this investigation?
Will she ever do another interview? (not counting FOX)
Will the Russians invade Alaska?
Will the “straight talk” express ever get out of the mud?
Can pigs fly when they have lipstick on?

Stay tuned for the next thrilling episode Sarah Palin “Moose Killer”

(I’m scared Rocky)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She is already trying this “executive privilege” crap with the 1000 e-mails that she is withholding-the ones that are probably going to prove that she did in fact abuse her power. The thing is, many of those e-mails had been cc’d to none other than her “First Dude Todd Palin”. Too bad for her that it’s not going to fly, since the First Dude saw them. But I’m sure she will still try it with the subpoenas.

12092008

Laurie(13:13:15) :

Half sigma..there is far more to troopergate than that.

The issues regarding the trooper were dealt with by his superiors in 2005 I think. They were not even reported to investigators until a long time after the events occurred. The kid was 11 years old….he is 17 now, so that makes it 6 years.

The investigators did what they could….only for the things that Mike Wooten actually did. NOT..the things that Sarah Palin and her family said he did.

Dont you find it curious that none of these threats to dad….drinking in patrol car…tasering a kid..and he didnt taser him in the way people think. Sarah Palins sister was there while it was being done. The boy wanted to know what it felt like..wooten was an instructor…her put a training clip in….attached an alligator clip to the boys shirt…and gave it less than a second. Mommie dearest thought it was fine.

All of a sudden they are in court for a divorce and the entire Palin clan tried to make it so Wooten would lose his job, thereby not having means to support his kids in the event he wanted custody.

It was after she became governor that she started the ball rolling again. She tried to use her position to have him fired. She lied and then they found emails and taped phone conversations. It is unethical for someone who is spouting to the world how ethical she is. Its not so much what she did…its the lies and the cover up

12092008

Sarah in CA(13:14:18) :

McCain: “Listen, mayors have the toughest job, I think, in America. It’s easy for me to go to Washington and, frankly, be somewhat divorced from the day-to-day challenges people have.”

So he’s actually admitting that he’s out of touch with the everyday man? After all this elitist stuff about Obama? Holy crap, he’s such a dick.

Patriot Games
They probably have no basis for the subpoenas to be quashed, but a good lawyer can drag things out for quite a while. I am listening to one on Air America right now who claims exactly that.

12092008

cc(13:16:25) :

Congrats to Charlie Huggins for his support! Way to go!

12092008

Pacificnwgal(13:16:27) :

I saw THE VIEW episode that you are mentioning. McCain did nothing but stall and evade direct questions again. Pathetic. You could see the wheels in Barbara Walter’s brain working trying to pin him down, but he just evaded her question on what Palin would ACTUALLY DO in Washington for the country. Again, he was vague as he could be.

Today’s Yahoo news has a pretty indepth article (link) about the banned books scandal. Palin claims that she was just “inquiring” about how books get banned because “other” people asked her to, and she did not threaten anyone. I guess people were just “making things up” when they felt threatened by her. Why would a mayor “just inquire” about such a thing anyway? So far…. we have every single person in Sarah’s life lying about their encounters with her. She is the ONLY ONE telling the truth. Right.

12092008

NoCalGal(13:16:29) :

Karen and all other mudflatlians in Ike’s path.. be safe… and hope the power stays on!!

Today on “The View,” John McCain defended his campaign’s latest ad campaign, which has been debunked repeatedly as both false and sleazy. In running the sleaziest campaign since South Carolina in 2000 and standing by completely debunked lies on national television, it’s clear that John McCain would rather lose his integrity than lose an election.

……………………………………….

Way to go! Slam him for the sleazy lying attack ads, slam him for resorting to the same sleazy tactics that Bush used against him in 2000, and slam him for lying to the American people on TV, AND slam him for forfeiting his integrity for his own personal hubris!

12092008

larrybob(13:20:29) :

who is charlie huggins, the representative of wassila, that voted for the subpoenas? you guys up there certainly have a lot of political fun; i always thought that we here in chicago had cornered the market.

I love your Blog! It is creative, well-written and informative. I would like to see a few more source links so I can forward along to my family… Several of whom happen to be those right wing religious folk types who vote the way their church tells them to, which means I always need proof to back up my point.

Thanks, Mudflats!

12092008

SMR(13:23:58) :

The post from an Oklahoma reader made me happy, the one about all of the Obama signs there in the heart of Republican country. Thanks for the uplifting post!

Alaskans are sick of Sarah & Todd and their same-old-corrupt-practices ways in spite of Palin’s promises to voters that she was going to be different. Well, at least I didn’t vote for her.

In the interests of trying not to get bogged down in all of the ugliness of this stuff I did my bit to promote Obama today by sending an email to my aunt in New York, asking that she forward it to our many many relatives in PA & OH. The email gave a link to this site, hopefully it will get passed around, as emails sometimes do, and shed some local light on issues for the voters of PA & OH. I would also encourage others to get out the word, when emailing friends/relatives/etc., that factcheck.org is a requisite stop on your journey to find truth in this election. Here’s a link in case you’ve not already got it bookmarked: http://www.factcheck.org/

12092008

cc(13:24:23) :

Charlie was the lone Republican from Wasilla who voted with the other two Dems for the subpeonas. Woot

12092008

Anonymous(13:26:11) :

Wow. If Palin and the First Dude have nothing to hide and believe in full transparency, please, Alaskans, don’t let them get away with quashing his subpoena?

Let me rephrase: PLEASE, FOR THE SAKE OF THE NATION, DON’T LET THEM!! HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE!

12092008

judi(13:28:45) :

When Todd goes to jail she can call him 1st jail dude.

12092008

larrybob(13:30:05) :

from what i can find on the web, huggins appears to be a typical gop alaskan senator, doing the bidding of oil companies while being a straight shooter with folks back home…why the vote for the subpeonas? was it to get back at palin for the increase in the oil royalties, pissed off at the heavy-handed lobbying by mccain/palin, or was he inspired by the pursuit of justice?

12092008

lemonfair(13:31:35) :

Judi B

A few years ago I found my mom’s diary written in 1936-1940 in a small Massachusetts town, and I couldn’t help but think how much was better and how much was worse it was in her time.

The rural life was idyllic in many ways – no worries about what global warming or pesticides would do to that wonderful place and its birds, for example. There had been a bad war and rumors of the next one, but no atomic bomb yet.

But the Depression loomed over everything, and getting a chicken or a piece of fruit was an event worthy of getting recorded in her diary. Also, when anyone got sick there was fear of the deadly consequences of an infection. I wonder, sometimes, if we are headed back to those fears.

In the meantime, life is still very good in Vermont -there are no billboards, there’s artisanal bread and artisanal cheese, and Nate Silver at fivethirtyeight.com still has us with a 100% chance of voting for Obama. Like Alaska we’re a small state where everybody knows everyone, but there’s not a whiff of scandal about any of our politicians. Not sure why Alaska puts up with it (on the other hand, I might reconsider if someone was putting $3200 in my checking account today.)

tasering a kid..and he didnt taser him in the way people think. Sarah Palins sister was there while it was being done. The boy wanted to know what it felt like..wooten was an instructor…her put a training clip in….attached an alligator clip to the boys shirt…and gave it less than a second. Mommie dearest thought it was fine.

———-
Glad somebody finally posted that. Republicans are making it sound like he tasered his kid as if he were a perp on PCP !

It was just a test setting, and you don’t actually shoot the darts into the body. Nothing like the real thing. I asked a local law enforcement friend who is also the taser instructor here, and he concurred. Every policeman authorized to carry a taser has to go through this “test session” to see what it feels like. Although the test is NOTHING like the real thing, they say.

On a scale of 1 to 100, a REAL taser hit is a 100, while a TEST is about a 10.

How to sidestep questions. McCain gets ripped open again. Apologies if this has been posted before

12092008

MH(13:38:42) :

Two High-Ranking McCain Campaign Officials Lobbied For Companies At Center of Sex-For-Oil Scandal

By Greg Sargent and Eric Kleefeld – September 12, 2008, 4:47PM
Here’s something that could complicate the McCain-Palin reform message a bit: It turns out that McCain’s national finance co-chair, Wayne Berman, is a paid lobbyist, and has been one for years, for two of the oil companies that are at the center of the sex, drugs and oil scandal enveloping the Interior Department.

One of McCain’s high-ranking campaign officials also lobbied for the companies for years — during time periods when the scandal has unfolded — up until he joined the McCain campaign in the spring.

Has anyone thought about WHY Todd Palin might have been on those e-mails? Although Sarah is the Governor, perhaps she demurs to Todd even on matters of State because he is the HUSBAND and she is the WIFE? Don’t certain Christian sects take that very seriously? Just a thought I had.

(For the record I am the only male in my house and my wife is the source of income. Sexism is the *last* thing I could ever be accused of)

This is good news indeed. We, mudflattem-ers, must support Branchweather & French by writing to the AK legislators TODAY, Monday & EVERY DAY if we care about this country. The list of names and phone numbers is on this list – open the pdf file & call and write.http://w3.legis.state.ak.us/pubs/pubs.php

A week ago I wrote to Defenders because we don’t have any 527’s and contributed $50. for them to make ads about aerial predator hunting because I knew any feeling person would recoil if they knew her environmental policies. Disclosure: I belong to Defenders and have belonged for over 10 years being a member in good stantding. They do excellent work on a shoestring budget.

Defenders put together a great ad, please contribute $10 so we can get this aired in Ohio, Florida, New Hampshire and Virginia. Ask your friends & family.

Palin claims that she was just “inquiring” about how books get banned because “other” people asked her to, and she did not threaten anyone.

I swear your honor ! I shot him by accident ! Three times !

12092008

Lizzie(13:48:14) :

Thinking about this fiasco, I just don’t get it. McCain MUST have known that something like this was coming down. Every TV and Cable news program, every major newspaper has mentioned something about the way McCain/Palin have been mis-representing facts over the past 2 weeks, yet they continue doing so blithely.

Andrew Sullivan’s theory is that McCain’s team has been hiding the news from him to keep him from knowing how badly they vetted Palin.

Or could it be that they’re protecting him because they’re afraid he’ll fall apart?

I just don’t get it. How can he so readily give up on a reputation he’s spent a lifetime building?

12092008

Palmdale, CA(13:48:26) :

@ Half Sigma
From what I understand about the time line, there had been several reviews of the trooper’s conduct, and he had been cleared. Then, once his marriage to Palin’s sister collapsed, her entire family came up with a whole new series of allegations. And that’s when the alleged pressure on Commissioner Monegan began, including the emails that are being withheld, including the taped phone call, etc. And at one point even a judge told her to back off because she was going too far.

I realize none of us knows all the facts. That’s why an investigation is important. If she has nothing to hide, she should be welcoming the opportunity to clear the air and clear up the cloud over her candidacy, her family, and her current office. People with nothing to hide don’t try to stone-wall. They cooperate. After all, isn’t that the argument the government is using when people question having their mail opened, their phones tapped, and their emails read? If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about?

Believe me, tasing a kid, even a bratty one, is inexcusable. It’s clearly child abuse. And the trooper should be held accountable if it happened. But knowing about it and not reporting it at the time, only years later, is also reprehensible, most especially if you are a public official.

The people of Wasilla, of Alaska, and of the US deserve the truth — the whole truth. And we deserve it NOW, not just a few days before a national election with her on the ballot, and particuarly not afterwards when it’s too late to make a difference.

The similarities between Bush and McPalin are striking. Withholding info citing “executive priviledge”, extreme arrogance at the suggestion of accountability, burying emails, demanding unwavering loyalty-all the while rome burns-and the list goes on. These arrogant bastards have not even been elected. Please visualize with me what the next four years could hold in store for us:( WHERE’S MY BONG?!? Thank god Im furthering myself and my education and acquiring a law degree. I will not be a friend to conservatives and other arrogant schmucks that oppress, supress, and depress the people. Power to the People.

12092008

LJP(13:54:08) :

Smitty, I am sending $50 to Defenders today. The ad is devastating to watch, if you have a heart.

Soccer moms will not be so thrilled when they see it.

12092008

Lizzie(13:55:57) :

@Harley: Ironic that McCain has shed so much of his character in the past year, even if he does win, he’ll be a lesser man than when he started the race.

hey palmdale-that tasering nonsense if it even happened it just a load of crap, just like you said. It is nothing but a ploy, and if I am reading the news correctly, this was not even the main reason for dismissal. I’m sure all of us have worked for people like this, and growing up part-time in Northeast Arkansas, I saw this type of nonsense all the time. I moved to Portland OR, and thought I would escape it…alas, I moved into the white-est suburb of the whit-est city in America, and “it ain’t no betta!” Although there are serious benefits with living on the left coast. There is a reason people here call the middle of the US “flyover” country…

12092008

Ky(13:59:14) :

“I’m here in Houston waiting for Ike and dreading losing power and my internet connection. Wish us all luck!”

Karen, I’ve been watching the coverage all day, and have been keeping you all in my thoughts!♥

Republican presidential nominee John McCain told the hosts of ABC’s “The View” today that his running mate Sarah Palin had never sought earmarks from Congress while she was governor of Alaska, even though she had in fact asked for about $200 million for projects in her state and employed a lobbyist to help.

McCain at times faces tough questioning and commentary from the five female hosts of the popular morning show, with Joy Behar questioning two ads he is running against Democratic rival Barack Obama.

“We know that those two ads are untrue,” Behar said. “They are lies.” She was referring to two heavily criticized McCain ads, one that criticizes Obama’s support of sex education, and another that says he was being disrespectful of Palin for his comment that McCain’s call for change was like putting lipstick on a pig.

McCain said they “are not lies” and defended them.

Barbara Walters jumped in to note that McCain had made the lipstick on a pig comment, too, about Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton’s health care proposal.

“About health care,” McCain said, referring to his own comments. Obama “chooses his words very carefully. He shouldn’t have said it.”

McCain has portrayed Palin as a reformer unwilling to accept pork from Washington.

But Walters and Behar pressed.

“She also took some earmarks,” Walters said.

“A lot,” Behar added.

“No, not as governor she didn’t,” McCain responded.

The Obama campaign quickly produced a sheaf of newspaper articles indicating otherwise, such as a Sept. 2 Washington Post article that said the governor’s administration “remains eager for many other earmarks. In February, Palin’s office sent Sen. (Ted) Stevens a 70-page memo outlining almost $200 million worth of new funding requests for Alaska.”

Walters was a particularly aggressive questioner, about Palin’s qualifications and whether McCain was still the maverick he claimed to be.

She asked repeatedly what Palin was supposed to reform about Washington.

Behar jumped in: “You used to be sort of the maverick. Then you sort of turned.”

Asked McCain: “In what way?”

Behar said, “You sort of became more in lock step…”

“I’m the same person as I always was,” said McCain.

McCain also drew scattered boos from the audience when he said he thought Roe v. Wade was “a very bad decision.”

Things got a bit better when Cindy McCain joined her husband on the show’s final segment.

Asked why McCain should be president, she said, “for the obvious reasons” and then said he is a “measured man” who always puts his country first.

Host Elisabeth Hasselbeck asked Cindy McCain whether there were were areas where the two disagreed.

McCain leaned over and said, “Never.”

She answered, “He and I do see eye to eye on most things.”

Things went more smoothly on McCain’s next talk show stop, when he and Cindy stopped by the “Rachel Ray Show.”

McCain donned a “Kiss the Candidate” apron and talked about ribs and his love of grilling. If elected, he pledged, there will be grills at the White House and Camp David and “I guarantee you that no one but me will do the grilling.”

The bubbly Ray told the audience that she had just learned that McCain likes to buy his ribs at Costco, to which she expressed surprise. “I’ve been to Coscto, I just never pictured you guys…”

McCain revealed a secret to his ribs: lemon juice, during the grilling, to keep the meat moist.

12092008

Anonymous(14:04:42) :

Harley, I have enjoyed so many of your beautiful posts. Take heart!

McCain and Palin will not win. So many people are talking about how their campaign is currently imploding (c.f. Andrew Sullivan, for one). Look, even the women on “The View” are going after them now.

The polls are not a good indication. The Palin Plague phase is just beginning and it’s going to land right on the GOP, now that the honeymoon is over.

12092008

AnneinWA(14:07:43) :

I HAVE WONDERED THROUGHOUT THIS RACE WHY JOHN McCAIN’S CHARACTER HAS NOT BEEN QUESTIONED (yes, I heard somewhere he’s a pow), BUT I THINK THESE ARE REAL BIOGRAPHICAL STORIES THAT MANY VOTERS HAVE NEVER BEEN TOLD.

A presidential candidate dumps his wife of 15 years to marry a younger woman. His new wife — whose multimillion dollar fortune comes from booze — steals painkillers from a charity, forges prescriptions and causes a doctor to lose his license because of her lies and manipulation to feed her opiate habit.

The man’s running mate put her unborn child’s life at risk to make a speech important to her career while leaking amniotic fluid. She has a pregnant teenage daughter.

If any of these people were Democrats, I’m sure the media would be telling the story this starkly. It would be called the “character” issue.

@Harley – Mccain will not win. Monday you’ll see a clear turn. I’m confident. I actually think it’s a good thing that Obama hasn’t responded much so far to all the lies. It’s given Mcpailin the nerve to go on spewing all that untrue vitriol. Now there’s enough rope for the hanging.

12092008

LJP(14:09:07) :

Harley,

Have faith. Obama’s campaign is smart. They have a plan. Obama never expected this to be easy. The campaign has always known that the powers behind Bush would not go out without a fight. So what can you do?

1. Send $ to the Defenders of Wildlife group that Smitty belongs to so they can put that ad everywhere. A few dollars from all of us will help.
2. Send $ to any 527 supporting Obama. I will search some out and post a list.
3. Write smart, careful letters to the editor. Write to newspaper columnists, national and local, urging them to think about the issues and about the significance of McCain’s VP selection. I just wrote to conservative David Brooks at the NY Times today. If the media want people to work the refs, let’s work the refs.
4. Check out filmmaker Robert Greenwald’s site on “The Real McCain.” Get those videos going viral.
5. Send a few bucks to Obama.
6. Email the political directors of the networks and the cable outlets. I wrote Chuck Todd and he wrote back.
7. Ask liberal blogs to post what Obama is saying on the campaign trail, not just what is going on that is anti-McCain/Palin.
8. Read conservative Andrew Sullivan’s blog. Pro-Obama. He says, “Patience, Steel.”
9. Don’t look at the polls. Remember, there are thousands of new voters who do not have regular phones. Democrats have a huge registration edge.
10. Remember that whatever happens, election day won’t be the end of the fight to take back our country, to take it back for ordinary people. We are at the beginning, not the end.

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(14:09:55) :

NorCalGal: are you a law student? i think (i am sure alaska parallels FRE) if what is being argued goes to establish the case itself a privilege could not be asserte. i also think any sort of fraud charge would negate either spousal privilege. the fact that they are govt. documents made public (by her passing them along) would likely also eliminate the privilege.

12092008

Amused and Bewildered(14:09:59) :

CLINTON GOES FROM A WHINER TO GRACEFUL!

Just heard this — Palin is now trying to use Clinton as a wedge for the party, undoubtedly based on Biden’s statement the other day. Well, of course, not really Palin, the person putting words in her mouth, but still…

Apparently this will be in the 3rd segment of the interview tonight.

“I think he’s regretting not picking her now, I do. What, what determination, and grit, and even grace through some tough shots that were fired her way — she handled those well,” the Alaska governor told Charles Gibson in her third and final exclusive interview with ABC News.

12092008

AnneinWA(14:10:51) :

Ky (13:59:14) :

Ky, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Our kids are just up the road in New Kaney, TX, so I hope we are all sending positive thoughts, chants, energy and support your way! Hunker down and stay safe!

12092008

lemonfair(14:11:01) :

Harley – that’s my fear, too, but remember that Obama was up 7 points little more than a week ago. I really think this is an understandable flirtation with McCain’s pick by people who have only just begun to pay attention (hard to believe) and who heard McCain’s speech and bio, and think what a fine, honorable man he is.

If they really do start to pay attention they’ll find out what a farce that is. Gallup has the race back to just 3 points. The press is starting to do its job. As we know, it’s pretty hard to stay “neutral” about such blatant lies.

Hey guys, I asked this on another post but I haven’t seen a response yet.
My question is, “why do some people in Alaska hate wolves and bears enough
to think it is ok to aerial shoot them? What is the deal with that? Are they
suppose to be some kind of a menace to lifestyle or what? Help me out here.

12092008

mvngfwd(14:13:13) :

Hey Smitty, I too have been a long time supporter of Defenders and I will go right now and make another donation. I have been writing/calling/donating on behalf of this cause for a long time and they do wonderful work were others fear to tread. I do really think that this is another issue that will further dissuade McPalin voters if they have a heart beating in them. When I heard about the “paw for pay” crap I just wanted to b$#tchslap her. Native Americans have managed populations just fine for thousands of years without the help of airplanes. This is just cruelty at its most disgusting level and pathetic at the same time. This is NOT the American I want be a part of.

Hey guys, I asked this on another post but I haven’t seen a response yet.
My question is, “why do some people in Alaska hate wolves and bears enough
to think it is ok to aerial shoot them? What is the deal with that? Are they
suppose to be some kind of a menace to lifestyle or what? Help me out here.

There’s a LOT of trophy hunters out there. While some may shoot for legitimate reasons you can bet charter plane pilots will be making a small fortune taking fat cat execs out to kill anything. If I was an eskimo I’d break out the orange.

12092008

AnneinWA(14:16:42) :

LJP (14:09:07) : wrote:
“Have faith. Obama’s campaign is smart. They have a plan. Obama never expected this to be easy. The campaign has always known that the powers behind Bush would not go out without a fight. So what can you do?

“I’m here in Houston waiting for Ike and dreading losing power and my internet connection. Wish us all luck!”

Karen, I’ve been watching the coverage all day, and have been keeping you all in my thoughts!♥

Thinking of all you and praying for your safety. Ky’s my daughter’s name, short for Kylie, went for just Kye originally though and was out voted. Hope that doesn’t happen again in this election !

12092008

Lizzie(14:19:46) :

I agree with the optimists. Obama’s campaign still says that they’re right where they want to be. If they were ahead right now, supporters might become apathetic and not turn out in November. It’s better to lag behind a smidgen….exactly as they’re doing.

My thoughts go out to my fellow mudflatters in the Houston area as well as all my coworkers who were evacuated.

12092008

LJP(14:25:20) :

Praying for all in Ike’s path. Be safe.

Thanks to AKMuckracker. You are doing great work here. This may be the best blog in the country right now.

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(14:25:33) :

Regi: if the wolf population is decimated, doesn’t that mean there will be more moose for sarah to shoot? if there aren’t any wolves to eat moose then there would be more moose for palin to eat. oops–i mean SHOOT and eat! i sure felt silly typing that. what is the plural of moose?

12092008

Lizzie(14:26:17) :

@Ky, and all on TX coast…..stay safe. Thoughts and prayers from this family as well. If there’s anything any of you need….all you have to do is post!

Regi: if the wolf population is decimated, doesn’t that mean there will be more moose for sarah to shoot? if there aren’t any wolves to eat moose then there would be more moose for palin to eat. oops–i mean SHOOT and eat! i sure felt silly typing that. what is the plural of moose?

Arkangel: Has anyone thought about WHY Todd Palin might have been on those e-mails? Although Sarah is the Governor, perhaps she demurs to Todd even on matters of State because he is the HUSBAND and she is the WIFE? Don’t certain Christian sects take that very seriously? Just a thought I had.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have to admit, that crossed my mind.

On the other hand, maybe they just like to make up diabolical plans together as part of their relationship. *lol* Mean people tend to marry other ruthless people.

Isn’t it interesting that the Judge who heard the custody case for Palin’s sister was more worried about the abusive family slinging accusations rather than the taser incident?

A quick side note for all in the path of Ike, I missed it and am grateful but I worry just as much for all of you. Please be safe and if you find yourself in need of help because of this let me know. I will do whatever I can to help. You have all done so much for me and my sanity through this blog and I want to pay it forward.

Thanks for the ad showing Palin’s brutality! One thing is for sure, there are a LOT of animal lovers in this country…that ad showing how she supports aerial killing of wolves and even offerering $150 for a severed paw is sick.

I sent it out to everyone I know. This is the kind of stuff that affects people on a gut level. Unfortunately, many don’t care about the issues…so if this gets them to rethink her, so be it.

I know there was another link posted the other day to a forum with a lot of info on troopergate, including a lot of official documents. I couldn’t remember the name of the link so I have not been able to find it, but I did recall seeing some of them over here –

If anyone has the link to the forum with stacks of info on troopergate please post it in these comments for everyone’s info!😉

12092008

Susie in Jersey(14:35:30) :

Divatalk, it’s a lack of respect for the environment and it’s not limited to some folks in AK. It’s all over.

Up the street from me there are kids that ride their ATVs through the woodlands their parents own without a thought to what they are doing to the plant life or the little critters that live on the forest floor. It’s apparent in the trash on our roadsides, in car commercials (Jeep, for instance) that show people drive their vehicles through land where vehicles have no business being, in the people here in NJ who are screaming about bears and coyotes invading the human’s territory – they are all like Sarah Palin – the world was made for THEM and they want it their way.

I have to end this rant before I get too carried away. But please know, it’s NOT just certain people in AK.

Are liberal blogs just a tool of the Rove machine? (all mccain/palin all the time and no substance of Obama/Biden’s message)…..

Please read, and lets focus on the message too, not just on the catastrophe that the other side is becoming (as fun as it is)

12092008

Larina(14:42:00) :

I’ve been reading this site for days and am so thankful that there is a place I can go not only for the blogger’s perspective, but for all of the links that come out of the comments section. I’ve learned more in the past week clicking on those links than I think I wanted to know. But more keeps coming. Here is an analysis from Joy Harjo of Palin’s stand on Alaskan Native rights:

KY–we really are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers…remember, we’re all Americans..

12092008

Diva(14:46:59) :

Arkangel: Has anyone thought about WHY Todd Palin might have been on those e-mails? Although Sarah is the Governor, perhaps she demurs to Todd even on matters of State because he is the HUSBAND and she is the WIFE? Don’t certain Christian sects take that very seriously? Just a thought I had.

I think it’s another sign of her true inner insecurity. She puts up a false bravado, but deep down she knows she is in over her head, and thinks she needs his help.

I just heard the second part on ABC, AK and All the Alaskans, if she comes back you folks gotta get rid of her, The Lobbyist Handlers got this chicks mind so confused She’s Worse Than When She Started out, no wonder she was repeating the same written speech over and over!!!

12092008

Mollys Mum(14:48:49) :

You know, I just had a brilliant insight. (Friday night and the fourth glass of red wine will do it anytime!😀 ). McCain is on his way out. It’s apparent to anyone who compares videos or pictures of him today with a year or even six months ago. The man is dying. so…he doesn’t CARE. He wants his moment in the sun and he’s getting it. He can say anything, choose anyone, and it doesn’t matter. He’s not gonna be around, and I think in some way he knows it, so he’s going out with a bang.

When he made that comment about having an “old fountain pen” and being ready to “veto the first earmark request that came across his desk as president,” I thought, this guy is off his rocker. Not ALL earmarks are evil. He’s just being a blowhard extraordinaire and making sure his last rocket fire will never be forgotten.

JMHO. I haven’t followed his life and times that closely, so maybe he’s always been like this, but his actions and his attitude strike me as that of someone who knows he has nothing to lose.

Please watch it! We must have hope, patience of steel and say enough loud for all to hear! Don’t forget SNL has Obama on tomorrow night! Stay up late and watch him. I’m sure he will be fab.

To all those in Ike’s path you are in my thoughts! Stay strong

12092008

Deb(14:50:46) :

Palmdale-
As I understand it, the tasering of the kid came when they were joking around as a family and the kid ASKED what it felt like. The trooper put the gun on “test” and gave the kid a quick buzz…(explanation of what that feels like is on one of these posts) Maybe it was poor judgement on the trooper’s part to actually do it, but it wasn’t like he tasered himm to punish him or out of anger. It was out of the kid’s curiosity. At least that’s the story I read, and it goes along with the trooper’s interview.

Although Sarah is the Governor, perhaps she demurs to Todd even on matters of State because he is the HUSBAND and she is the WIFE? Don’t certain Christian sects take that very seriously?

Good question for Impeachment, the Alaskan people didn’t Vote {Hire} ‘The First Dude’!

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(14:52:37) :

I’ll try that link again…here we go..

12092008

Erin(14:53:14) :

Here’s the news story on the threats made to the AWRP rally organizers. It’s pretty shocking when you hear the words “maggots” and “babykilling” coming out of Eddie Burke’s mouth on air. The story also includes the phone number of the radio station that is supporting Burke’s freedom of speech, if any of you are interesting in making a call.

I needed a pick me up…and I love this video. Hope you enjoy it if havent seen it before.

12092008

ocliberal(14:54:45) :

Serious question:
When does Sarah Palin have time to go hunting for all these moosi (and wolves)? Between manicures, hairdresser appointments, 5 kids – one a 4 month old baby, being governor, running for VP? I mean seriously? Are we really supposed to believe she out every Saturday morning stalking the bush?

Just curious because now I’m wondering if that is something else she embellished about herself?

You don’t usually think of women who are that obssesed with their personal appearance wanting to get their fingernails dirty.

12092008

ocliberal(14:55:48) :

My boss just emailed me this video

Very funny!

12092008

Harley(14:56:34) :

Laterz people

is inter-netted out

12092008

Susie in Jersey(14:56:40) :

Cmac, in many ways I think Sarah Palin HAS BECOME one of the issues in this campaign as she is representative of McCain’s judgment and his apparent caving into the far right of his party. It’s an issue that must be addressed.

Diva, did you read Deepak Chopra’s comments on Sarah Palin? He says what you say, that she (as well as the Repubs – my take not necessarily Chopra’s) is insecure and that’s why she is so shrill and negative.

12092008

sauerkraut(14:57:09) :

Well, she sure as hades cannot claim any sort of Executive Privilege on this one.

Not to forget that the moose the trooper was charged with shooting unlawfully, by PALIN, was butchered in PALINS DADS garage, and shared out among the whole family (INCLUDING PALIN AND TODD) to eat.

P.S> Hi Rhett.

12092008

Susan(14:59:36) :

I just saw that her next interview will be with Sean Hannity. Gag me with a spoon. Here’s a guess at his questions:
– Is it fair that the media have been so mean to you?
– Isn’t it wonderful that you’re more experienced than Obama?
– Your kids are just so cute. Tell me more about them.
– You knew what the Bush Doctrine was, right? You just needed clarification on the question, right?

Sauerkraut: i noted above that I think if fraud is alleged then neither of the 2 spousal privileges would apply. i did not read the complaint, but i think some of this includes fraud or some type of fraud related offense? am i wrong?

do you mean spousal privilege as far as the emails? were they not group email? then wouldn’t the privilege also be waived? i also think there might be a waiver for govt communication but i am not sure. i assume ak rules of evidence parallel FRE.

12092008

Lizzie(15:02:55) :

Have any of you ever used Google Trends? It’s a nifty tool that shows news and web trends for anything in the world. Here, for example, is a chart showing the trend for news coverage and searches for the names Obama, McCain, and Palin. Palin, of course, has gone through the roof in the past two weeks, but the trend lines show much more Obama interest and coverage than McCain.

Susie,
Where did you read about Deepak Chopra comments?
On his website? Do you have a link?

12092008

Susie in Jersey(15:10:01) :

Mollys Mum, I’m out in Hunterdon County – where, BTW, I am seeing more Obama signs than McCain signs! If you ever need a trip to the country, give a shout.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(15:10:14) :

@crflats–thanks for telling us about the postcards. I had no idea. I went and signed up to help this way. Knocking on peoples doors makes my knees knock. But, this I can do. Really glad you posted this:)

12092008

ENOUGHwiththetrainwreck(15:12:07) :

with respect to rove playing the liberal bloggers — maybe. but i will tell you one thing – all of the debunking has been done with volunteers on the internet via blog comment sections.

and the pressure from the “netroots” has the media scrambling from their approximate 11 day backlog of learnin’.

and i don’t know about the rest of you – but i get my daily fill of obama just like clockwork. i watch his interviews – i check out the clips where i find them. i know his working. i know he doesn’t need to count his “hits” to be assured that we support him. he is counting the new voter registrations and he is watching the complete and total annihilation of palin and mccain on the internet. of that i have no doubts.

but thanks for the reverse psychology concept. all information is needed.

campaign obama/biden are working.

the netroots are working

and apparently half the population is either so anti-abortion they don’t care if they elect dead people or the very fact that they are not engaged in the deeper issues means they have always and will always decide who to vote for on the way to the polls if they remember to go.

this is THE election for the netroots. the people that are ENGAGED in the actual vetting of the candidates. and those folks will not be fooled again.

and rove — screw you.

12092008

Alice(15:12:10) :

This is a little dated, but it is good for a laugh. I am looking forward to hearing more Palin impersonations from Rosemary Watson!

12092008

mvngfwd(15:13:36) :

I just donated $100 for half of a 60 second Defender ad. Any takers on the other half?

12092008

Palmdale, CA(15:14:29) :

Can someone clear something up for me???? Pleeeeze. I’m hearing that the McCain campaign sent out 1MM invalid absentee ballots to folks in the Cincinnati, OH. Did these go to their own kind (I sure hope so), or just to Dems (s**t, not AGAIN!?), or what? What sweet irony if they sent them only to Repukes! Of course, the story I’ve read comments that had this happened in 2004, under GOP Sec. State Ken Blackwell, any votes on the invalid ballots would simply have been thrown away. His Dem replacement is doing the right thing and notifying people. More proof that Dems are willing to govern, Repubs only want to win — at any cost.

12092008

Susie in Jersey(15:16:27) :

Speaking of Obama signs, does anyone know how long it takes to receive merchandise from the campaign? I made a donation in response to the appeal that promised a shirt, a lawn sign and a couple of other items (my 3rd donation but first for merchandise) in return for a $50 donation.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(15:16:28) :

Good evening – I’m trying to catch up –

Harley – is that a new icon you’re sporting? I was over on another post, and all of a sudden it popped up. Is the message of those whose name shall not be spoken: “…I want to be a REAL candidate?”

Wow, a lot happened today. Was the news positive for Obama today? Any news where Biden is hiding out?

I volunteered today and I don’t know whether to be happy or sad. Do you know how many people are not registered to vote because they don’t think their votes count????????????? IT’S A LOT especially in the lower income neighborhoods which is where we went today. (sigh) We really tried to help them understand why this is important – for themselves, for their children and grandchildren, for this country. Some just smiled and said “okay I will do it….” After a few of those, I got a little – shall I say? uppity – and just so happened to have forms and pens with me. I was not going away until they were registered – NOW WE JUST HAVE TO GET THEM TO THE POLLS.

Spoke with a dear friend in Miami this evening about this Radical Right Conspiracy Theory. All I can say is that he depressed me so much that my husband has hid my Bible and probably my gun for all I know. He is cooking me dinner (bless his heart he hasn’t gotten the message about shoving us back to the Dark Ages) and I have a free Get Out of Jail card if I want to cuddle up with a good book about our Founding Fathers (those good ole Revolutionary War days…) and a bottle of wine.

I’m also in Houston. So I just got out of the shower (taking advantage of it while I still have power) and something occurred to me. I had lunch with a friend the other day and he mentioned something obvious which I don’t think anyone has quite mentioned or picked-up on. Mccain will only do one term if he wins. Think about it, he will be 76 when 2012 rolls around and I don’t think there is anyway that he could or would be allowed to run again. If he did win (though I’m praying not every single hour), this shortened term might just be a good thing for us in some respects. If he didn’t have to worry about winning again in 4 years, he would actually have more freedom. I can’t really believe that someone who has explicitly stated he would never seek to overturn roe v. wade in the past is suddenly, really pro-“life” and will seek to overturn it. His supreme court justice picks would most likely be more moderate then we think because I think he is truly more moderate than he has to act to win this election. If he didn’t have to get reelected, he wouldn’t necessarily be beholden to the people who got him in office and could actually do some house cleaning like he “promises”. Now, don’t get me wrong, if he wins I still think he will put us further behind in the curve because he really doesn’t have any good ideas. Hell, he will prob just steal all Obama’s. Palin, on the other hand, does scare me a bit and I want her nowhere near the Whitehouse. I just don’t think she is careful enough. With the little experience she has, look how many skeletons she already has. The thought of what she could do on the national stage chills me to the bone. This whole line of thought would make me feel better at this scary “what-if” if I could convince myself that no, he won’t get us into war with Russia. But as he has mentioned it on every last thing I have seen him in lately, the thought really scares me. So thoughts? How does the fact that he will prob be a one-term prez affect your view of the whole thing?

*Just FYI, despite this game of What If, I want to clarify that I really do think Obama is going to win. I have complete trust in the canniness and intelligence of his team. The pundits like to say he was unprepared for Palin, but I’m not so sure. WE have to remember, always, that this is NOT Gore and certainly not Kerry and is not there team. I voted for Kerry in 2004 but it was more a vote against Bush than a vote for Kerry. I remember reading an article in Time about Obama after his 2004 convention speech. One of his law professors was quoted as saying that Obama had the most brilliant political mind he had ever encountered. When I feel down about the polls, I remember that quote and I feel better.

Defenders of wildlife finally got their ad on the air in Ohio and are now getting it put on the air in Florida. The ad exposes the truth behind Palin’s policies for arial hunting of bears and wolves, with footage of wolves being shot from low flying airplanes.
With Todd being called into court over troopergate and her disregard for wildlife and her bounty of 150 bucks for each wolf killed, she’s looking worse and worse by the minute.

12092008

mpalm(15:21:08) :

Palmdale,

From what I know, they were sent to both Dems and republicans, but maybe mostly republicans. There was an error in the form which legally negated it. This may be just another example of republican incompetance

Just read Obama is likely to pull out of Saturday Night Live due to Ike dominating coverage (if Ike hits hard) tomorrow… :0(

12092008

Proud2BUSA(15:25:54) :

Palmdale –

Isn’t it rich that Ohio was trending Obama, and FLA trending toward McCain?

12092008

Let'sGetReal(15:26:43) :

She can not sing executive privilege, because Todd is not a state or federal official. That one is out the window. There are forensic computer engineers who can recover the emails, should they get deleted “in error”. There is no way to hide those emails, especially by them being on an email server somewhere.

With all the blatant lies on the McCain camoose, er, caboose – how likely are these people to tell the truth? I hate to even insinuate that as I don’t know them but it sure has been tough to get the truth out and when his team is confronted with out and out lies they continue to live in a parallel universe. What’s the chance of this sticking?

12092008

England(15:31:28) :

Pay more attention to the Rape victims being charged for forensics, please.
It now transpires it was introduced under Palin with her new appointee

BREAKING NEWS: The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted 3-2 today to subpoena 13 people — including the husband of Gov. Sarah Palin — in an investigation of whether Palin abused her power in trying to get her former brother-in-law ……

12092008

mvngfwd(15:31:59) :

@Enough- Bravo! Well said, especially the last line.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(15:32:30) :

@goesdownbitter: “They’re all above the law, Democrats and Republicans. Vote 3rd Party this year…”

Did you know that Bill Cosby is advocating writing in HIS NAME for President this year? I kid you not.

12092008

Lizzie(15:32:42) :

@Krystal: I don’t think it’s even about McCain any more. I think it’s the GOP throwing its full force into this to win at all cost. They want those supreme court nominations (among other things), and won’t get them with Dems in control. I’ve heard and read quite a few conservative pundits puzzling about McCain’s behavior in the past few weeks. The “Straight Talk Express” is all but shut down, he had no input to the GOP Convention platform, etc., etc. This is not the way he behaved last time around.

12092008

Ohiovoter(15:32:56) :

Am I mistaken??..

Was watching ET after the big Palin interview. They showed a video of Palin taken sometime this spring. Was that Todd Palin sitting in the Governor’s chair behind her desk???? Who’s the real gov up there? Go Obama

12092008

Laurie(15:33:45) :

Jim Staro…in an evangelical christians home the man is referred to and expected to be the God Head. He and only he makes final decisions

12092008

Lulu(15:34:34) :

Dear Friends: I just signed the “No Way, No How, NO Sarah Palin!” petition and I highly encourage you to do the same. Sign now and learn the truth about Sarah Palin’s awful record.

I never knew vetting could be so much fun! John McCain you really missed out on this one!

12092008

Corie(15:40:59) :

Love the idea of postcards for Obama. A handwritten note is so personal and might cut through the clutter of campaign mailers and calls. I’ll bet the voters in the swing states are about ready to yank their phones out of the wall!

12092008

Proud2BUSA(15:42:03) :

Redwood Man – he had an Obama sticker beside it!!!!

Does that mean he’s confused???? ?????

I should have tracked him down to the mall then. I am getting fearless. I ask everybody if they are registered to vote. I ask in the line at ChickFilA, I asked my car repairman, I asked my beautician, I asked my vet….I think I might need intervention. I just don’t want to lose this by a few votes. Do you know how many people are not registered to vote? It’s more than I would have ever thought – especially this year. Is that just in my state – NC?

12092008

Diva(15:43:51) :

Erin, I posted this on the 2news Ankorage website:

Diva Says: Your comment is awaiting moderation.

September 12th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Eddie Burke is obviously a man who is threatened by anyone expressing a viewpoint that differs from his own, and he does not respect the purpose of a press release. To resort to revealing the phone numbers of the women organizing a peaceful rally is a transparent attempt to encourage his listeners to call and harass them. He should be punished in some way, this abuse of the public airwaves for perverse political purposes should be expressly prohibited. His actions were abominable, and his manager defending him is worse.

Why don’t they both publish their home phone numbers so we can call them to “discuss” it?

12092008

raingods(15:44:34) :

We should all get together in our respective cities for the 1st Presidential debate, 2 weeks from today.

At first I thought it was just spin about all the reports about the so called attacks on Palin, but it wasn’t Spin, the Spinmeisters just simply don’t understand, and apparently journalists also, the People, Actual Regular Folks, Could Vet Someone Wanting To Be Hired By Them!!!

No, I had not read Deepak’s “analysis” of Sarahcudda, but to me it’s obvious. I know people like her, and in a perfect world I’d feel sorry for her, but the stakes are too grave here. She can’t BS her way into the White House, not like W and Cheney did. We are in too much deep doo-doo because of them. She must be stopped. We have to do all we can to expose her for the fraud she is. That goes for McCain, too. It’s shameful the lies they both tell, as if they think we’re ALL stupid! Sadly, some of us are, but I have faith enough will seek and see the truth before it’s too late.

12092008

sauerkraut(15:53:34) :

Rhett – I intend to answer your question about various privilege issues just as soon as I catch up with all 200+ posts. My question, above, was part rhetorical. So there is an irony in you answering… hahahaa

12092008

Olive(15:53:35) :

Krystal,

You need to get a grip! I certainly wouldn’t want to be in the fox hole with you. Don’t focus your energy on alternate scenarios. McCain mentioned the possibility of one term, but no one would hold him to it, nor would he “not be allowed to run.”

All political campaigns have ups and downs; ebbs and flows and we don’t want our guy to peak too early. Stay calm, stay confident, and hold the line.

By the way, “white house” is two words (a common noun, thus, lower case).

Thanks for the link to Deepak Chopra. I’ve been so accustomed to reading his spiritual material I didn’t realize he would actually write about any of the political issues.
It was quit thought provoking.

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(15:53:52) :

lemonfair: i posted a couple times about spousal privilege.

i think there is an exception to the spousal immunity privilege where there is some sort of business relationship between the parties, in custody matters–by osmosis?? however, i think the fact the emails were part of a group email situation, then it could be argued the privilege was waived as the communications were disclosed.

for the confidential communication exception, the exception is waived if the communication was used to perpetrate a fraud (good argument here) there is also the business relationship between spouses and third parties (valid argument), i also think the “disclose” waiver could also be appliied here as well. the emails, cell phone calls, etc. were disclosed to other parties.

however, i think there there is a valid argument the privilege was waived because the communications were disclosed to 3rd parties. who knows. i think the spousal privilege will not fly to either the spousal privilege or confidential communications privilege

12092008

Proud2BUSA(15:54:55) :

LaughingNoLonger –

We did today. We printed out the forms, I had stamps and envelopes, pens, anything I could think of that may be an excuse. You can get these online. A lot of the people we visited today do not have home access to the internet. We are trying very hard here.

I am exhausted and sad. I am exhausted because I am not used to tramping my fat butt around in the heat of the day. I am sad because so many people are cowed down that they don’t think their vote counts. I wish they could meet the mighty Mudflatters because I’m positive you guys could motivate them to get out and vote.

12092008

Lizzie(15:55:31) :

Sorry, I think this was discussed before, but I can’t listen to KUDO on my MAC. Tells me to download an MS app that won’t run on my computer. Does someone have another link that worked for them?

12092008

Diva(15:56:31) :

Proud2BUSA (15:16:28) :

Good evening – I’m trying to catch up –

Harley – is that a new icon you’re sporting? I was over on another post, and all of a sudden it popped up. Is the message of those whose name shall not be spoken: “…I want to be a REAL candidate?”

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>.

Hell, she’d probably settle for being a “real girl”! Have you seen how plastic she is?😉

@goesdownbitter-
I have nothing wrong with your statement other than the fact that you only start screaming “Third party” when it is at election time. And then we end up with another 2000 debacle. I do believe we need more options in our government but may I suggest that you try to push this noble thought after November 4th? You have had 7 years to get prepared with plenty of ammo given out by GW et al.. Why didn’t you work harder then? Have you volunteered for a third party organization or donated to anyone prior to the last three months? These questions are more rhetorical (sorry Rhett) really but I have been doing these things for my party for the last 20 years. I have worked hard, donated generously and am so proud of the candidate we chose to nominate for President 2008. Can you say the same? If not, please do not be a Karl Rove miracleworker because I cannot handle another 4 years of Bush. Besides I think a Third Party would have a warmer welcome with Obama than McCain.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(15:59:34) :

(: about Obama not being on SNL. But Ike is looking to be one scary storm. His first priority should be there. Again thoughts and prayers to all Texas Mudflatters.

12092008

HamletsMill(15:59:36) :

Harley (14:01:44),

Wow. I wish they would have asked their history illiterate Valley Girl daughter Megan McCain why she thinks “We are the only people who know about war. Period.”

We’ve got the internet to connect with each other. We are no longer slaves to the corporate media – and the preferences of their advertisers – to deliver the information we need to make informed decisions. We can reach out to mudflats, other Alaskans, and other Americans, and other people worldwide – each other – with a common interest. This has been obvious to us with other interests – sports, car, pregnancy, and coupon bulletin boards etc. But never has the internet shown us how relevant it is in allowing us to mobilize towards a common interest unrestricted by government influence or corporate influence.

Vetting Sarah Palin is important. Who knows? It could be the end of our democracy as we know it. Or, maybe not. Whatever the case, we have this medium to take action together on a global scale. Its not a substitute for community action. But, its a helluva start. Its really beautiful to watch citizens working together here taking their responsiblity seriously.

Two great things that have some out of this fiasco for me are:

1) mudflats – a national treasure – and
2) the realization of the power of the internet to create very large communities.

This is really power to the people! Let’s not forget that when the powers that be try to limit it.

12092008

Diva(16:02:26) :

4. VOTE FOR THE LIPSTICK, not the Dipstick (not sure what that really means but it was funny because it was on the back of burly old man’s pick-up)

Ummm, I’m afraid this one is for Palin/McCain. She’s the lipstick, for obvious reasons, and Obama is the dipstick because he is……..dark.

I think that driver is a dipsh*t, pardon my french!

12092008

otis(16:03:54) :

to Oklahoma Independent, in my suburb of Orlando, FL, we are 15-1 signs for Obama to McCain…and we are one of the red counties that gave the 2000 election to Bush. I know a few diehard Republicans who are disgusted by McCain/Palin and are voting for Obama. I hope this is a good sign of things to come.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:03:59) :

oKAY – are you watching Keith O? Because we have NEW SLOGAN –

YES! SARAH PALIN IS LYING!

how dare they? HOW FLIPPING DARE THEY?

(Honey, where’s my gun…..??)

To those trolling – IT’S A JOKE. . . . JOKE. . . JOKE…

12092008

Diva(16:04:04) :

John Henry-

“2) the realization of the power of the internet to create very large communities.”
____________________________

Now you know why those dipsh*ts want to regulate the internets.

Be afraid. Be very afraid!

12092008

Let'sGetReal(16:04:53) :

Whoopi asked John McCain if she needed to worry about being a slave, since he said he wanted to change some things in our Constitution. I have this on my mind as well, since I am an African American. With Palin being tied to the AIP, and we know what their views are.

12092008

C(16:04:56) :

You all should go to the ABC news website. They keep releasing new clips of the interview. They’ve got clips with her talking about Domestic Policy, bans on guns, family life and some other things.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(16:05:48) :

@ Diva
Or dipshit means McCain! As we have seen…they do have those buttons now that have Palin on top!

12092008

JT(16:06:14) :

QUESTION!!!

Dang, hate it when others use caps!

But I do have a question. I have been reading some articles that Palin did not cut funding for special needs children as was reported earlier, but increased it…someone wanna help me out here?

Thanks

12092008

SMR(16:06:15) :

This comment isn’t about the troopergate scandal — but just in case any journo types are reading this & have people on the ground here in AK, here’s a suggestion:

Head out to the local BestBuy & Costco (there are actually 2 of those) & the Sam’s Clubs! Today Alaskans received their PFDs and their “Energy Relief” money. Over $3000 in everyone’s bank account for those with direct deposit. So, if you head out to the big stores you will be able to see how all of those people WHO DO NOT PAY STATE PERSONAL INCOME TAXES are spending their “energy relief” and PFD money. The PFD money is, of course, provided by the oil companies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please please please get lots of coverage of the bachanallian spending frenzy so that everyone in the other 49 states can ask the questions that beg to be asked: “Wasn’t that energy relief money thing OBAMA’S idea?” and “What in the world do you people need the highest per capita earmark amount for????”

P.S. I didn’t get one because I’ve just returned to AK after living overseas, and am leaving the country again next year, so will not get one for this year that I’ve lived here. Thank God! Don’t want it, it’s tainted!

@ Diva
Or dipshit means McCain! As we have seen…they do have those buttons now that have Palin on top!

——————————–

Their sexlife is none of my business.😉

12092008

JT(16:07:51) :

Let’sGetReal…OMG….did Whoopi really ask him???? What did he say?

12092008

otis(16:07:57) :

If Todd Palin is anything like his wife, he will just LIE under oath…

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:08:12) :

thank you, diva, for straightening me up – I am oblivious and need to become more enlightened to these direct racial attacks. . . I can find those in these horrid, horrid ads that accuse Obama of “how dare he?” That goes along with uppity –

I think I was just too high on the O-train today and thought we could get everyone on our side (sigh) That’s what you get when you do a Lennon Sing-a-long all: “Imagine” “All we are saying . .. . IS GIVE FREAKING PEACE A CHANCE…..”

I’m watcing MSNBC right now Keith Olbermann, 5:06 PM, Portland, OR. This woman is so damn stupid. “Bush Doctrine?” “In what respect, Charlie?” She is an idiot. She is an idiot. She is an idiot. She is an idiot.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(16:09:16) :

LOL!!!!!! Thanks for making me laugh.

12092008

Let'sGetReal(16:09:22) :

JT

Watch KO, he is going to talk about it. He didn’t say he wasn’t going to change that part.

12092008

Laughing No Longer...(16:09:30) :

proud2be- thats great, you thought of everything!
i’ll bet folks are appreciative. come election day they will thank you. tell them vote with a friend!

i will do the postcard thing too. i have to be in midtown nyc tomorrow so i will pick up nice postcards. a week from saturday we’re going to va.

12092008

otis(16:10:08) :

watching Olbermann right now, and did I hear Palin say NUC-U-LUR???????
Oh, no, this is bad.

GO WHOOPIE!!!!! Whoopie kicks A** – trust her to be the only one who asks the really hard and truthful questions!

I am now back in love with Whoopie!

12092008

Krystal(16:12:22) :

Hey Olive,

Did you read my last paragraph? Didn’t quite realize how long my comment was before I posted it. My mind is always racing and I have been addicted to politics 4-ever but particularly since Palin was nominated. I lived in Juneau for 6-months and was across the street from Palin many times which has added a distinct element of weirdness to it all. I had a thought and was just trying to get others take. I think it is highly unlikely that a 76 year-old man will run for another term. Your body begins to slip at that point if you are in the best of health which McCain is not. Like I said, I was just playing the what if game for a moment. I still have complete faith in Obama and will continue to try to convince everyone of the fact that he is the best man for the job, despite living smack-dab in red land. I want Obama in the White House (Happy?) just as much as you.

12092008

Krystal(16:13:57) :

there I go again, white house. And I think I would be quite wonderful in the foxhole, thanks.

12092008

Sarah in CA(16:17:19) :

Good for you, Proud2B! You are doing what you can, and I admire you!

I’ve heard some people say that they have just as much of a right *not* to vote. To those, I say, “True. But then you’ve given up your right to complain about the outcome!”

Imagine if everyone in the US actually did vote. I wouldn’t doubt for a second that Obama would take this in a landslide.

12092008

Lizzie(16:17:32) :

@Diva: I saw “Vote for the Lipstick, not the Dipstick” on the anti-Palin shopping site. Wondered about that.

are you guys listening to randi rhodes? she is listing all the people coaching and traveling with palin. ALL bush people!

not sure if spelling is right but i think it is worth listing the names

1. Tucker Askew: Bush staffer now a consultant. The guy responsible for the McCain has a “black baby” campaign. MCCAIN HAS NO SHAME TO HIRE THIS GUY! WTF?? dude is beyond slimeball

2. Tracy Schmidt: worked on both Bush campaigns now emplyed for biopharma.

3. Nicole Wallace: Bush White House communications person

4. Mark Wallace: husband of above and former Bush staffer

5. Steve somebody who was on the Bush National Security Council

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:20:15) :

Diva and others –

Ok. Now I’m totally and utterly confused. So, I’m (okay – first, I’m having frozen margaritas) looking up the Lipstick bumper sticker to make sure I don’t make some goober dweeb-billy comment to somebody who really is for Obama.

My guess is Van Flamer will use a multi-pronged attack to quash the subpoena’s. Part of the hurdle he will have to overcome is the sheer number of people served with that document. He likely will stick to Sarah Palin, and by the extension of marriage, Todd Palin. This will cause a bit of a problem because the taxpayers are picking up the tab and he’s not a state employee. Translation: delay.

It appears that the main argument is that the wrong body is conducting the “investigation” and that jurisdiction must be transferred. I do not know if this has been presented to any judge (mudflats? do you know this off-hand or can you point me in the proper direction??) for a ruling and, if not, then it will need to be briefed and argued and ruled upon. Translation: more delay.

A side argument, at least as to Todd Palin, will involve various forms of privilege. I well imagine they will try them all if for nothing else than delay. Delay, especially long delays, are the Palins’ best friend – especially if any final ruling is not issued before the election and especially if a judge puts a matter into that old “under advisement” tray.

My understanding of this would be helped greatly if I could find out if any court action has been filed on any part of this. Nevertheless, here goes.

Executive Privilege: not applicable as to Todd Palin because he is not a state employee working for the Executive Branch. Caveat: some, if not most, of the emails and correspondence will likely pass from public examination because of other names on the documents which enjoy protection under the privilege. A smart lawyer would request an “in camera” review, especially if all hope of keeping the documents secret appears lost. Briefing and arguing and appealing this one is going to take a long, long time. Perhaps a couple of years.

Spousal privilege: no-brainer. The introduction of 3rd-parties to the communications negates this privilege. The problem here is that no one knows how many of the large volume of emails were just between Sarah Palin and her husband. A smart investigator would ask a judge to conduct an “in camera” review of any and all documents deemed protected by the spousal privilege.

Attorney-client privilege: this would at first blush appear irrelevant; however, it is common practice to deem any document sent to any attorney for whatever reason as subject to the ACP. So, it takes time to get the response that certain things are covered by the ACP, then it takes even longer to get an extremely basic index of documents which are being withheld under the ACP. Getting the index might itself take 6 months without a judge intervening and telling them to hurry it up. Once the list is created and produced, it will take time to designate which documents contained thereon really are subject to ACP and which ones are not. It takes even longer with a very determined foe. And then comes the “in camera” review by a judge.

Did you alls say there were over 1,000 emails alone?? Holy crap… she must have spent all of her time the past 20 months writing emails on this one small matter!! When did she ever get around to doing the people’s business??

Hope this helps you alls, and you, too Rhett. Your answers above were pretty much on the mark.

LetsGetReal, I saw that when Whoopi asked that question. I thought it was funny
I was waiting to hear what he was going to say to that. I was planning to start
packing my bags if he wants the Constitution EXACTLY as they wrote it. You know
we were only 2/3 human according to them.

12092008

fawnskin(16:21:59) :

i’m for getting together for the debates with my fellow mudpuppies.
anyone in southern california?

12092008

Cynthia, TX(16:22:17) :

Ok everyone I am back on with a great you tube video that is starting to get around it’s called Heartbeat!!!! and I mean it makes you think…can we really afford to have Palin one heartbeat away from the presidency?

********
Please try and pass it on we are trying to make it a viral YOUTUBE video. We have to be the 527 of this campaign.

“As a lifelong Alaskan and public servant, I’m disappointed by the complete hijacking of what should be a fair and objective process. It is troubling to see partisan Democrats and Obama supporters abuse their power, the legal system and trust of Alaskans to smear Governor Palin to score political points. Arbitrary deadlines, inappropriate public comments and secret deals between Sen. French and ‘independent’ investigator Branchflower, have turned this process into a complete farce. This use of government power for political gain is an embarrassment to Alaska and the landmark ethics reform our state has achieved under Gov. Sarah Palin.”

Of course, it’s worth pointing out that before McCain selected her as his running mate, Palin said she welcomed the legislative investigation into the so-called “Troopergate” controversy in Alaska. “Hold me accountable,” she told Alaska reporters in July.

That said, Republicans criticized the Democratic state senator leading the probe — Hollis French — for politicizing the investigation when news accounts quoted him saying the investigation could be an “October surprise” that is “likely to be damaging to the [Palin] administration.”

=============================

Of course, when all is said and done, its them whose actually the victims of a corrupt system, but the press is not taking it anymore. They are FINALLY adding the obvious contradictions from the McCain Campaign in their story. Yippie!!! PERHAPS you should have been nice to them to begin with. You had them at hello! Now you’ve pissed them off. What do you call that in a political campaign? Incompetence!🙂

12092008

Laurie(16:23:49) :

Did you folks know, that Sarah palin told the troops leaving for iraq that they were going to fight and kill the folks who engineered the 9/11 attacks

12092008

Deb(16:24:20) :

JT-in answer to your question about Sarah and special education funding (I’m work in special education and so I try to keep up with this also.) An original post on here said she cut special ed funding. In looking at different things, it looks like she ended up with a PLUS side on the budget for special ed., after cutting one or two special programs. Most recently, I read that her FIRST year was actually and increase and the second tended to be more of a wash.. you have to remember that special education funding is VERY dependent on federal funding and that the feds (specifically Republicans) have not fully funded IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) since it’s inception. Sarah…in case you haven’t noticed…besides being such a “reformer” is a Republican!

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:25:57) :

On Keith O – words like “terrifying” and “repugnant” are being used to describe Scary School Girl Barbie who wants to become Leader of the Fascist, er, Free World.

If you live in a blue state, does it really matter if we go out and get people registered? I know my state of MD is going to go for Obama. And since the popular voite doesn’t matter isn’t more important that we do whatever we can in a swing state?

12092008

Deb(16:28:53) :

It is absolutely astounding that news of his subpoena has not hit MSM…..do they actually WAIT for blogs to do the investigative reporting for them? DEMAND a stipend, mudflats!

One Heartbeat is very effective
I have forwarded the link to everyone I know, including KO.
Obama should make this an ad.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:29:51) :

@SarahinCA – thank you for your kind words. I haven’t done this grass roots kind of thing in a long time. It feels good, but only for a minute or two. We have not come that far. I am so sad about that. I want everybody to have a dream, and not delusional ones like Armageddon Barbie. And by the way, instead of First Dude, won’t Todd become First Felon??

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:31:11) :

Harley – your avatar just sends me over the orbit. It makes cry I’m laughing so hard everytime I see it. It’s priceless. Thank you – i just wish we could put that on the side of her Campaign Plane.

12092008

Deb(16:32:08) :

I’m all for registering voters, Diva. You are lucky to be in a blue state! I’m in Colorado…a swing state…..voter registration here is CRITICAl…but so are the grass roots voter to voter conversations. Wish you could bring your enthusiasm HERE!!

12092008

SMR(16:32:13) :

Randomly clicking on links from other posters here and found this one. It’s great & needs to be forwarded to any & all people who are sitting on the fence!!!!!!!! Very thoughtful & honest blog from a conservative religious Republican who is now voting for Obama (we need lots more of them, maybe they’ll see the light if they read this!).

In that latest ABC interview, she talks about ANWAR an uses the oil company talking point “it’s only 2000 acres”. Here’s where they got that figure: they calculated the footprint of each well and support structure and added up the square footage, converting that to acres. Of course, it’s a GIGANTIC misrepresentation because those wells will be scattered across a huge area of presently pristine land, nowhere near the “2000 acres” that she’s claiming. Biden ought to knock her down with her own words.

12092008

Nebraska Native(16:33:34) :

Breaking news now starting to interrupt live TV (KO on MSNBC) Be safe Texas mud-puppies, keeping you in our prayers.

According to Google news, there are 685 news articles on the subject, so it is being reported.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(16:35:33) :

@ Deb—Hey fellow Coloradoan!! Nice to see you again:)

12092008

JT(16:36:21) :

Thank you Deb.

My husband asked me if I was happy when I found out something negative about Palin. I think he is tired of hearing his normally non-political wife rant.

The answer was no. I actually would prefer to find something positive about her.

I will never be able to accept her for supporting shooting wolves by air. I would love to find that to be a lie.

It is not that I want a reason to vote for her, I simply want a reason not to feel so devastated if she gets into office.

Funny thing, the thing that most turns me off on the Palin McCain ticket (from an Independent view) is the stupid lies. I don’t get what the point is. The GOP has so successfully branded themselves as the Liar Party, that I will never believe them again.

If you lie about stupid and easily checkable stuff, you will lie about anything.

And if the McCain party yells “gee the other side lies too”…then I have to ask if the other side thinks its cool to cruelly kill animals. Not that I am against hunting (although not something I would ever do), I can not tolerate those who mistreat animals. IMO, shows a lack of humanity and character.

12092008

Gene(16:36:24) :

Question for Mudflats – if the Govenor is found to have abused her powers, does the impeachment rule apply or is she allowed to serve out her term?

12092008

Sarah in CA(16:37:51) :

fawnskin: I’m in SoCal. L.A. County.

Proud2B — you’re welcome! I know it’s sad sometimes, but you’re bound to inspire more people than you think!🙂 And I can’t figure out the lipstick bumper sticker. It implies to me that it’s anti-Obama, but… it’s on that anti-McPalin store, so it’s confusing.

How about a clearer sticker: “Don’t vote for the lipstick OR the old dipstick!!”

12092008

Let'sGetReal(16:38:22) :

Divatalk….if John McCain trys to change the constitution as it was initially written. It will never happen!!! Our ancestors were at a disadvantage back then. I am ready to die for my freedom!

12092008

JT(16:38:44) :

Yes…to all those in Texas be careful!!!!!!

12092008

sauerkraut(16:40:31) :

John Doe – by now you should know that she’s an idiot and totally lacking an honest bone in her body. Frankly, if McCain wanted a respectable Alaskan on his ticket, why didn’t he choose Ms. Mudflats??

12092008

Deb(16:40:41) :

hey gal….(and neighbor)….think we can keep this state more left than right?

12092008

Bystander(16:42:24) :

Divatalk (16:26:24) :
If you live in a blue state, does it really matter if we go out and get people registered? I know my state of MD is going to go for Obama. And since the popular voite doesn’t matter isn’t more important that we do whatever we can in a swing state?

I’d say it matters if but only on a surface statistical level. Every year brings its own set of challenges, issues, etc. Every election follows a similar path. But if there is a change in fundamental political alignment of “the people”, that may suggest something to the sentiment of the population in general. The popular vote may not figure into actual election of the President, but it does send a message. More registered voters, for whichever party, is a mark of involvement. It’s a citizen’s right to not register and to not vote. But it says something when eligible voters are registered, regardless of party.

Let’s …did you see him squirm with Whoopi’s question about slavery? was TOO funny…..aww gee…SOME things require the justices wisdom???

12092008

NoCalGal(16:45:12) :

RE: the wolf hunting ads.. very disturbing to be sure… but they will NOT work in most western states where wolves are viewed as pests.. so play in New York and FL and all those kinds of places- but they will not go over well in CO, CA, WY MT etc. target your audience… IMHO

To all you on the Gulf Coast and esp TX, BE SAFE! You are in our thoughts!

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:46:28) :

@Divatalk – I want to tell you no, no, no – i”m thumbing through my copy of MIRACLE OF PHILADELPHIA to see if I can get more detail and from a much more authoratative figure than me.

I am frankly concerned that we are plummeting, PLUMMETING toward a true, hard-core Fascism. These people are just downright cockamamie autocrats and if we don’t watch it, we are all going to be slaves, regardless of gender, color or income, to these medieval jesters, fools and thieves.

12092008

Deb(16:46:30) :

well…here’s a new “spin” for the lipstick comment…since they INSISTED on tying it to sarah……. you can put lipstick on Karl Rove…but it’s STILL karl rove!

HEAR, HEAR. I would feel much safer if the almighty Mudflats was Leader of the Free Press/World once Gramps kicks the bucket!

I think Whoopie should become an Honorary Mudflatter due to her honest and direct question – it’s more than any other journalist has done until now.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(16:51:32) :

@deb – lol. can we add some horns to that because then, we truly DO have the gates of hell covered with Palin-lites so happy to put her face on a bitch and now we have Satan himself represented,

12092008

Deb(16:53:27) :

I think we all need to stop and applaud sarah for her “maverickishness” (new word coined by me)
-first (as far as I know VP candidate with an unwed pregnant teenage daughter
-first VP candidate who hunts wolves from a helicopter
-first VP candidate under ACTIVE investigation by the state while campaigning
-first VP candidate who tried to sell an government airplane on ebay

…I’m sure all of you can come up with more reasons to applaud her “maverickishness” ??

12092008

Lynne(16:53:40) :

It’s like she’s auditioning for queen instead of vice president. I hope she and McCain lose BIG and that she then loses her job in Alaska when the citizens recall her or the legislature impeaches her.

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(16:54:33) :

sauerkraut: thanks for the update! i was hoping i helped a little. i was trying to recite the federal rules of evidence (most states adopt them) from memory. after i posted it i thought it sounded like some stream of consciousness spewage.

thanks for all your research and info!

attorney/client will not apply because i think all of this stuff is discoverable. most of it was available through a FOIA request. anyways..here i go with the spewage.

I get that earmarks aren’t popular but why do they always want to slam any earmarks for wildlife studies?GIBSON: Governor, this year, requested $3.2 million for researching the genetics of harbor seals, money to study the mating habits of crabs. Isn’t that exactly the kind of thing that John McCain is objecting to?

PALIN: Those requests, through our research divisions and fish and game and our wildlife departments and our universities, those research requests did come through that system, but wanting it to be in the light of day, not behind closed doors, with lobbyists making deals with Congress to stick things in there under the public radar. That’s the abuse that we’re going to stop. That’s what John McCain has promised over and over for these years and that’s what I’m joining him, also, saying, you’re right, the abuse of earmarks, it’s un-American, it’s undemocratic, and it’s not going to be accepted in a McCain-Palin administration. Earmark abuse will stop.

By the way Bystander, I was born in Havre de Grace, Maryland.
Just outside Baltimore in Harford County.
That is where I was raised and lived until I was 32 years old.
With the exception of my son and daughter, my side of the family all still live in Maryland. I actually went to high school with Cal Ripkin !
Well, acyually he went to Aberdeen High and I went to Havre de Grace High,
but my then boyfriend and he were great friends.
Oh, the memories…..Go O’s !

Its oyster season too, so have a few for me! I sure do miss
Bay Oysters and Blue Crabs !

12092008

Deb(16:55:37) :

please excuse typos…it’s a friday evening, after a very long week of work…and you people keeping me up late every night with news from alaska….and your wit and wisdom, so I am enjoying a little wine!

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(16:56:05) :

@ Deb–looked at one of the electoral maps today…Colorado is leaning blue! So, hopefully this will stand true come election day.

Also, just want to post this song that John Legend sang at the DNC. It really is an inspiration to us to keep up doing what we are doing. So, if you need a pick me up..go watch him sing..remember how electrifying that convention was…I cried every night because we do need hope in our White House.

12092008

Cassie(16:57:21) :

sauerkraut

Thank you for explaining it so that a mere accountant can understand!

But I thought I actually saw a list of the emails–not the content, but recipients, etc. I seem to remember that they listed them when they turned over the several boxes thay provided, as not being included.

Wouls this speed things up?

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(16:57:34) :

Proud2BUSA: have you ever read “it can’t happen here?” i might have asked you this. if so, sorry if i am repetitive. you keep citing such interesting works i thought i would ask you about this novel. i think it was your fascism reference that made me want to ask you about this book.

May I ask was this airplane really that frivolous? I mean if most Alaskans are courting big oil and gaspipes then you’re going to have some serious VIP’s visiting, frequent trips for dignitaries around Alaska, and probably an airstrip near the oil fields, etc… I googled but I’m not really seeing much of the debate, I did see Murkowski himself try to justify it in the government debate, but that would be suspect.The jet became the symbol of the hideously inept Murkowski administration. A local radio station had a contest to name the jet. It became dubbed “The Bald Ego” (instead of the bald eagle). It was cursed and loathed. She HAD to dump it. It was a huge issue.

12092008

Kate Henry(16:58:21) :

I wonder how she is going to refuse to allow the “first dude” to testify calling “executive privilege”. I’m pretty sure that doesn’t extend to a private citizen like her husband, someone who has never been an official member of her team.

12092008

Let'sGetReal(16:59:00) :

Ike 600 miles across! Almost the size of Texas…Oh Dear!

12092008

Hick Town in W PA(16:59:11) :

About Obama merchandise – I just received an email from them saying due to overwhelming requests they are backed up. They hope to get caught up by the end of the month.

I wonder how McCain/Palin merchandise is doing?

12092008

Kate Henry(16:59:24) :

Wouldn’t it be great if this investigation showed some grit and sent out the Sheriff to arrest everyone who avoided the subpoenas? I think our Congress could learn something from the Alaska Legislature.

To me, the cafepress site is equal opportunity campaign merchandise. IMHO, the “Read my Lipstick” McCain/Palin 2008 button, even though it is listed on the “Anti-Palin page”, is a pro-McCain/Palin button. I’m using those goofy broads in the big clown Halloween lips that welcomed her back to Alaska as proof!🙂

I still can’t figure a pro-Obama connotation to the Lipstick/Dipstick one, but I could be wrong. JMHO.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(17:02:46) :

@ Let’s Get Real–Ike is one scary storm. Just talked with a friend of mine who said there are people in Gavelston who haven’t left. The government told them if they are staying there to write in permanent marker on their arm the social security number so they could be identified. YIKES! So much happening at once, it is quite hard to take it all in. I feel some days like we are all living on borrowed time. 😦

12092008

Kate Henry(17:03:42) :

I was getting really depressed at how “close” this race is. Then a very level headed friend said “that will work to our advantage”. My reply was Huh? Her reasoning is that the tight race is mobilizing people to join the Obama campaign and they are out there registering new voters every day. If it is close on November 4, more Democrats will actually get out there an vote than would if the polls showed it was a landslide. And, we HAVE TO GET THEM out there to vote. That’s the only way we can stop the Republicans from stealing another election. They are already caging and disenfranchising voters. We need to overwhelm them the way we did in 2006. That’s the only reason why we won.

12092008

sauerkraut(17:04:00) :

Rhett – you know how the rules go – subject to interpretation by individual judges in various jurisdictions. I suspect Palin’s legal people will go to the case law and hope some of the wet road apples stick to the walls of justice.

12092008

Cassie(17:06:25) :

DIVATALK

Of course it matters! I know I’m old (fashioned, also) but people need to be involved. I firmly believe that people who do not vote have given up their right to complain or even discuss politics, and I have used that argument in my accounting office, when people complain about their taxes. First question, did you vote last November? If the answer is no, then I just tell them to pay up and shut up.

More importantly, so long as we send young people to die for someone else’s right to vote, we should involve every American in the process.

Register them up!

12092008

sauerkraut(17:06:53) :

Cassie – that is a huge!! I wasn’t aware that there already was a list. If you have a link to a place where I can review the list, that would be just awesome!

Harley – I’m just up the river from your old place. Just a bit away from the Good Hope Dam on the mighty Susqueeehanna.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(17:08:23) :

@ Kate Henry:

I was thinking the same thing today. Let the GOP think they are ahead. Then come November 4th they get knocked down by all the new voters who come out of the wood work. So, I decided that it’s cool to be behind. We all just keep on Donating & Volunteering. And as I read somewhere..Obama really is a political genius. Trust his campaign management and grass root support. Patience of steel is what will get us through. Gotta believe that! So, Vote Donate Volunteer

12092008

lemonfair(17:09:48) :

Sauerkraut:

I think I heard there were thousands of emails turned over, and 1100 held back. So yes, she must have spent a tremendous time writing emails. (Not sure where I heard this. I think KO last night . will look on the google)

12092008

lemonfair(17:10:36) :

Rhett: Thanks for responding to the privilege question. I saw you’d addressed it. Missed that on my first read through.

12092008

ds55(17:11:21) :

MSNBC Rachel Maddow’s show is having audio problems.
I think they just stopped her coverage of Todd Palin’s subpoena.

12092008

sauerkraut(17:12:57) :

Kate – keep your chin up! There will always be those chuckleheads who vote the party line no matter the evidence of badness in their candidate. Let them enjoy their bounce because as everyone knows… what goes up, will come down. Especially if it’s heavy on the stupid side. Their honeymoon is over and I cannot help but think – as I did when she was first announced – that it was simply a ploy to get in someone not approved by the GOP power structure.

Perhaps that’s something else we ought to hammer: that McCain cannot possibly be much of a maverick if he’s letting Karl Rove tell him what to do and who to have on what should be his dream ticket.

But, hey… that’s just me. I am no John McCain.

12092008

NY Dem(17:14:04) :

Olbermann just ended, and in between hurricane updates, it was one of Keith’s best shows ever ! He really hit some great points on Palin’s interview with Gibson. Also, the founder of the DailyKos was a guest, and did an excellent interview. He mentioned that there are many great blogs like his out there (was waiting for a mudflats plug, but he was just generic in his praise), and they are definitely having an effect on how the MSM handles things in the Internet age.

They usually replay it at 10:00 Eastern, but due to the hurricane, it might be bumped.

Rachel is on now, looking forward to more great stuff from her.

12092008

NY Dem(17:16:06) :

Rachel said at the beginning she is originating from Ithaca, NY tonite, didn’t say why. That’s probably the reason for audio troubles – they’re not at in the NBC studios in NYC.

In response to her request, McLeod received four large boxes of emails.

But more intriguing than any email correspondence contained in the four boxes was what was not released: about 1100 emails. Palin’s office provided McLeod with a 78-page list (PDF) cataloging the emails it was withholding. Many of them had been written by Palin or sent to her. Palin’s office claimed most of the undisclosed emails were exempt from release because they were covered by the “executive” or “deliberative process” privileges that protect communications between Palin and her aides about policy matters. But the subject lines of some of the withheld emails suggest they were not related to policy matters. Several refer to one of Palin’s political foes, others to a well-known Alaskan journalist. Moreover, some of the withhold emails were CC’ed to Todd Palin, the governor’s husband. Todd Palin—a.k.a. the First Dude—holds no official state position (though he has been a close and influential adviser for Governor Palin). The fact that Palin and her aides shared these emails with a citizen outside the government undercuts the claim that they must be protected under executive privilege. McLeod asks, “What is Sarah Palin hiding?”

The list of still-secret emails includes a series of messages that circulated on February 1, 2008, among Palin, Bailey, Frye, and Todd Palin “re Andrew Halcro.”

12092008

sauerkraut(17:18:45) :

They might be having problems with moisture in Ithaca because it has been soaking rain most of the day. At the same time, that’s where Cornell is so they ought to have the latest in technology up there.

I’m watching Rachel (not Ray).

Olberman repeat at 10? Normally don’t watch it, but willing to make an exception.

Gas prices take a spike due to Ike, maybe people will start to think about voting their pocket books instead of popularity!

12092008

Gina(17:20:33) :

Molly’s Mum

I’m in Rockland County. Are we close? I’d be happy to share a bottle!

12092008

Proud2BUSA(17:20:42) :

Rhett O’Rical (16:57:34)

Thanks again for your help last night with all the saints. You helped me sleep much better last evening – thank you.

Two things:

1) Fascism Comment: http://oldamericancentury.org/14pts.htm – this is an interesting site, if not disturbing, and is worth a wake up and look from us. If I take fascism at its truest form (and gosh, I haven’t been to school in YEARS…okay, DECADES….but I always viewed fascism as extreme nationalism, nationalized industries (think airlines, auto manufacturers anyone?), isolationalism, all that “…people bound together by moral law…” stuff and that all must be ready to “fight” for the moral and religious (to be debated) high road. With the current Republican platform, I would concur that I don’t think Geezer or the Wicked Witch of the West would vote for better education programs, more cultural awareness as I didn’t hear anything like that coming from their handlers at the RNC. But I do think we are fearfully close to the dissolution of the middle class and that Big Business is so in bed with Gov’t that it dictates our strategies – look at Cheney and Halliburton. Everytime a tank is blown up, Halliburton had to manufacture a new one – MONEY!!

2) Miracle At Philadelphia is an excellent little novel about the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It talks about as Franklin aged how wrong slavery was, his plea to ensure slavery was dissolved, and the final negotiation to give us the Consitution as we know it. It’s a nice little read. Author: Catherine Drinker Bowen, with forward by Warren E. Burger (Wow! That’s a name I haven’t thought of in awhile.)

Would be interested in your thoughts.

12092008

Lulu(17:21:13) :

Was watching Keith and heard this….I can’t believe that Palin addressed Track and the troops on 9/11 in Alaska, AND THEN THEY DIDN’T EVEN DEPLOY. It was all just 9/11 “theater”; they will deploy later in the month.

And who paid for that theater, ladies and gentlemen?

12092008

Michigander(17:21:40) :

ok mudflats groupies , which I admit I have become one of to a certain point…but I’m not an addict.

Please…..do your research out side of mudflats.

12092008

sauerkraut(17:21:52) :

okay, so ya alls have me in a Sarah Palin moment… shall I do what I said I was doing or shall I do what I will be doing… in other words, I just lied about watching tv. Truth is, I am now waiting for the pdf to fully d/l.

Let me explain why the spousal privilege cannot be used to block the release of any emails Sarah sent to whoever and cc’d Todd:

The spousal privilege protects from disclosure any private communication between a husband and wife. Either spouse can invoke it to prevent the other spouse from disclosing the private communication. Or one spouse can refuse to disclose a private conversation had with his or her spouse.

So, any email that Sarah sent to whoever and cc’d Todd is not a private communication between spouses. So, there can be no spousal privilege because whoever was the recipient of an email, of course, has knowledge of the contents of the email and no spousal privilege can be invoked to stop the email recipient from the disclosing the contents of the email, because the email recipient is not the spouse of Sarah.

Someone else asked “I wonder if this is the sort of situation where Todd could refuse to “testify against his spouse.” Any lawyer out there know?”

Yes, Todd could invoke the spousal privilege and could not be compelled to repeat any private communication he may have had with Sarah.

lol that’s funny- the worst one I have seen so far is Smoke Strapon Palin

12092008

cmac(17:22:59) :

diva:
I think registering voters in the blue states is very important. Our system is meant to be a participatory one, for one thing. The other is, once you empower people by getting them registered to vote and getting them stoked about a cause, they may perpetuate that enthusiasm forward and influence their friends and family, some who may be in border or red states!

Hopefully the cause is the same one that we are about, but honestly, getting all people participating in the system is something that people would and do die for in other countries. I will be very saddened if Obama doesn’t win, but if I knew that 100% of adults registered and voted, at least I would be sure it was the will of the people. And then I’d move away (just kidding).

12092008

Cassie(17:23:02) :

Sauerkrout

AKM has to help us out here…I had followed a link about some woman who was looking for a job from Sarah. Sarah apparently dissed her and the woman filed for copies of email. May not have it quite right, but when they provided the emails requested, and had charges the woman for them there was a list of the emails that were not being provided. I actually looked (pdf) at it and I could swer that there were listed recipients on it.

Hope you all saw the view and heard Whoopie ask McCain, “Does this mean that I have to be a slave again???” Go Whoopie—you rock!

12092008

Diva(17:26:47) :

“PLUMMETING toward a true, hard-core Fascism.”

Read Naomi Wolf,

“http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2007/apr/24/usa.comment

12092008

Proud2BUSA(17:27:24) :

@Diva –

If what you say is true about Dipstick, then we are truly back in Jim Crow – that is unacceptable. I don’t get it. This gets me riled:

1) GA Rep calls Obama “uppity” – no one appears to be appalled at that one but a few of us who throw that stupid, uneducated, ill-informed retard (no offense intended at anyone except the GA Rep)
2) They pose Obama as some sleezy TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD type of pediophile. That really got me mad.
3) They accuse Obama of “lying” about Palin and then in mock disgust ask: oh dare he!

OMG – this makes so mad it melts my margarita. I have an idea though! I think all voters should have to go into a box and only HEAR the candidates (I was thinking of Armageddon Barbie and about wrote contestant!!) and then make their decision. There would be no contest! Obama would take 99.9999999999999999999999999% of the votes. GRRRR.

The jet became the symbol of the hideously inept Murkowski administration. A local radio station had a contest to name the jet. It became dubbed “The Bald Ego” (instead of the bald eagle). It was cursed and loathed. She HAD to dump it. It was a huge issue.

I saw in the debate the democrat insisting he’d get rid of it and Palin following suit. If Alaska doesn’t like that sort of thing they should rethink inviting all that big oil up there. Seems Murkowski was just forshadowing how the whole culture will change.

With respect to the term uppity: Republicans seem to be allowed more leeway when using insulting and or racial epithets. I am not sure why this is so. Further, they seem to get away with false outrage at perceived insults. That is just America today.

saw in the debate the democrat insisting he’d get rid of it and Palin following suit. If Alaska doesn’t like that sort of thing they should rethink inviting all that big oil up there. Seems Murkowski was just forshadowing how the whole culture will change.

You know what I’m just going to stop right here because nothing has confounded me like the issue of drilling in ANWR. I’m against it based on the (romanticized?) notion of leaving something unspoiled, and I just want to see every bit of effort go to renewable, clean energy. But then I read this stuff and back to well if most of the people that live there think this way and want to be a colder Houston, then whatever. So needless to say I’m just going to keep reading everyone else’s opinions about oil for a while and shut up.

Does anyone else think it’s weird that Todd is signing autographs along the rope lines? I mean, who would want it?

12092008

Cassie(17:37:16) :

Sauerkraut

P.S….born in PA, lived there for 22 years…moved to NYC, then WY, back to PA for 28 and finally retired here in NC.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(17:37:38) :

@Diva – I think I like talking to you better in the morning. You send me frightening links. . .

I was working for a large corporation when the Patriot Act came through. I remember a lot of us questioned it (and I, unlike Delusional Barbie) truly was an executive with a couple of hundred ppl team and nice budget (that I managed almost to the penny🙂 ), and a lot of us had several private “Holy Sh**” conversations because our Board was hellbent on getting this implemented as quickly as possible. It eroded a lot of rights, and dare I say, companies felt a lot like Big Brother as we hired “former” FBI, DEA, and other federal agents. Yikes.

reading again. . . husband is playing Lou Rawls. . .

12092008

mvngfwd(17:37:50) :

Are their “15 minutes” up yet?

12092008

Gina(17:38:25) :

Thank you Lizzie! I’m trying to catch up to all of these posts. “Les Misbarack”
was fantastic!

With respect to the term uppity: Republicans seem to be allowed more leeway when using insulting and or racial epithets. I am not sure why this is so. Further, they seem to get away with false outrage at perceived insults. That is just America today.

Democrats are just hellbent on appealing to religious and less educated Republican voters logic and voting in their best interest. When McCain was down those voters were going to abstain, not vote for Obama. They’ve been waiting for another Bush because they thrive on having a President that justifies they’re stupid insistence churches should be running our country. Personally I think ANY church or churchgoer that worships a politician is nothing but a blashphemer, but that’s just me.

12092008

judi(17:39:29) :

Excuse me Proud but I am from GA and I am appalled at the Ga Rep from extreme West GA bordering on Alabama who used the term ‘uppity’. My margarita is melting too. I think, however, we would be better off ignoring ignorant sarah and concentrating on out guy Obama!

Augie, do you remember Billy (aka Billy Beer) Carter? People loved his autograph too!! Wonder how much 1st Felon’s autograph garners on ebay? Maybe that could help No Blink Barbie recover for that plane’s loss!!!

Look at that, they’re instead of their @@. Anyway my point was Democrats have to give up trying to please everyone and their pastor, take a firm stance and accept they lost those voters a long time ago and are not getting them back. They need the small town voters, true, but small town voters don’t appreciate a convoluted strategy and story.

12092008

mvngfwd(17:41:11) :

Rachel is back!!!!

12092008

Gina(17:41:46) :

Regi: I was thinking the same thing re: the airplane. I understand most of Alaska is not on the road system. What about airports?

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(17:42:40) :

Proud2BUSA: thanks! i cannot wait to check these out. i want to tell you that i truly enjoy (and learn from) your posts. so… thanks!

12092008

Charles(17:45:14) :

NoCalGal (12:39:40) :

“Communications between husband and wife are privileged too…

“wonder how THAT will factor in”:

But if he was cc’d on communications that went to others, then there is likely no spousal privilege (it’s breached), depending on Alaska law (not my specialty). So she may be screwed either way.

Also, I agree that a motion to quash the subpoenas is just a desperation move that makes it clear Sarah Palin has plenty to hide. She just wants to prevent the other shoe from dropping before the election. But so many shoes have dropped already: she is obviously a vicious, small-minded power abuser.

12092008

Bystander(17:45:41) :

mpalm (17:34:14) :
With respect to the term uppity: Republicans seem to be allowed more leeway when using insulting and or racial epithets. I am not sure why this is so. Further, they seem to get away with false outrage at perceived insults. That is just America today.

Who effectively owns the PC argument or agenda or whatever one wishes to call it? If one is on ‘the other side’ of the PC battle over, in this case, word choice and attendant meaning, and thus one rejects the perceived meaning or declared use of said word, often the argument boils down to a “he said/she said” thing in terms of intent.

The ‘false outrage’ observation is a different animal though.

12092008

Charles(17:48:05) :

oklahoma independent (12:40:10) :

“My fear is that if she is guilty, the GOP will trivialize it and make the trooper into the villian and make poor Sarah the victim. Our nation of sheep will fall for it.”

Good luck the the Pugs on that. Wooten is a private citizen and never sought scrutiny. If the Pugs conspire to further vilify him, they will be added to that lawsuit that is surely coming so quickly your head will spin. Palin, make no mistake, is on very thin ice here. That is why she is fighting like a banshee.

Bystander: it because they are in power. . . they have the power to say” oh I didn’t mean it that way” -“you overly sensitive” yadda yadda yadda …..but everyone knows exactly what they mean, they just can’t to a dang thing about it.

Ok people, I am out of here for the night. been reading this blog and a few others all day. I have a home business and not gotten any work done. Got to make some funds to donate and to eat. (even though donating is seeming to win out over eating these days) peace out….

12092008

Proud2BUSA(17:50:36) :

@Diva: From your article – this is spooky because I’ve wondered if they “win” how they will treat folks who posted “against” them. I, for one, as an American cannot stay quiet. Maybe that’s why journalists are staying quiet? Are the Big Businesses forcing them to stand down??? ………..

“Professor Walter F Murphy is emeritus of Princeton University; he is one of the foremost constitutional scholars in the nation and author of the classic Constitutional Democracy. Murphy is also a decorated former marine, and he is not even especially politically liberal. But on March 1 this year, he was denied a boarding pass at Newark, “because I was on the Terrorist Watch list”.

“Have you been in any peace marches? We ban a lot of people from flying because of that,” asked the airline employee.

“I explained,” said Murphy, “that I had not so marched but had, in September 2006, given a lecture at Princeton, televised and put on the web, highly critical of George Bush for his many violations of the constitution.”

“That’ll do it,” the man said.

Anti-war marcher? Potential terrorist. Support the constitution? Potential terrorist. History shows that the categories of “enemy of the people” tend to expand ever deeper into civil life.”

12092008

Cassie(17:53:05) :

Sauerkraut?

Are you there?

Find anything?

12092008

Proud2BUSA(17:55:03) :

@Bystander – re the “uppity” comment. I somewhat disagree, but I would want other comments and thoughts on this. In some way, if one doesn’t say anything, it’s like saying “hey, it’s okay.” I don’t think it’s okay, and can’t believe it made people in GA feel good.

I can’t believe that anyone in their right mind (okay, that excludes some who want to rule the world) would think that behavior would be acceptable. In private business, if someone said that to another employee, it would definitely be cause for discussion and perchance, rebuke, depending on the context and color around the statement, but we don’t hold our Representatives and Government to a higher standard? We hold ourselves to a higher standard than we hold our leaders. Huh.

12092008

John Henry(17:56:00) :

“-first VP candidate under ACTIVE investigation by the state while campaigning” – Deb

-That would be a red flag to most people. Wouldn’t it? John McCain’s logic – if you can call it that – scares me!

“Yes, majority Republican. The vote was 3-2, two Ds and one R, against 2 Rs.” -AKM

-Excellent! So now their press release about this being a democratic hijacking of justice can be objectively shown to be high-grade fertilizer.

“At first I thought it was just spin about all the reports about the so called attacks on Palin, but it wasn’t Spin, the Spinmeisters just simply don’t understand, and apparently journalists also, the People, Actual Regular Folks, Could Vet Someone Wanting To Be Hired By Them!!!

And they still don’t get it!” – jimstaro (15:44:48) :

I think they do, but i guess we’ve got to remember in addition to being TV personalities, this is their job that they drag their carcasses out of bed everyday to go to. They can’t just go off and do what they want to. They lose advertisers. And the Republican Attack Machine is very good at bullying them. Maybe the Democrats should bully them more.

My last comment tonight after reading all this:

Basically Troopergate boils down to:

Sarah Palin, royally and uneccessarily, f’d this up. She decided to lie about why she transferred Monegan and, the felony in my opinon, the lie made absolutely NO SENSE: He had problems with Alcohol control issues so you make him the head of the department. Come again? Had she just transferred him to a different department or even fired him with severance – perfectly within power to do so – Troopergate would not exist. She could have hired a new head and had Wooten fired. Its not right, but she’s the Governor. Further, did anyone on her team say, ‘Sarah, the lie makes no sense. [Ben Stein voice] Todd? Todd? Are you there?’ What a collosal lapse of judgment here as Governor! But, of course this came up in John McCain’s vetting and he okayed it. Riiiigggghht.

12092008

LJP(17:56:36) :

Don’t be fooled about why we are seeing the full Karl Rove playbook. If it’s about the Supreme Court, it’s about power, power, power. Endless war. American empire. No-bid contracts. No corporate regulation. Lobbyists writing what regulations there are. Drilling in ANWR. Drilling everywhere. No work on climate change. Loot the treasury. Control the executive apparatus so you can stick the Democratic former governor of Alabama (Don Siegelman) in jail because h might win back his seat.

They had six years of a Republican presidency, a Republican congress, and a reasonably docile Supreme Court. They did nothing about abortion. They want that wedge issue out there forever. That helps them stay in power.

12092008

Catherine(17:56:49) :

Holy rolling crap, it’s hard to keep up with all you people!

Thanks for the link to the postcard thing – I have never, never, never gotten involved in a political campaign (well, since I made posters for my sister in grade school when she was running for student council treasurer), although I try to vote most of the time (even if it’s a “hold your nose and vote” kind of election), but this year I think I’ll do a bit extra.

I do not want that doddering old man and his flighty empty-headed sidekick around roundy kindergarten scissors, let alone a big red button labeled “push here to nuke Russia.” I’d like the president of my country to represent me to the rest of the world with intelligence, dignity, and empathy – the same way I’d like other people to see me, when I meet someone new.

Think I’ll have to pick up some pretty postcards tomorrow – probably with water (considering we have a lot of it here in Michigan).

(I also never, never, never read any political-type blogs before a week and a half ago – and now I may be addicted to this site.)

12092008

Gina(17:57:50) :

re: cafe press bumper stickers. If you look closely enough, there are several pro McCain/Palin items in with the anti ones. My feeling is vote for the lipstick means vote for Palin.

The term ” uppity “ used in the context with which it was delivered coupled with by whom it was delivered meant EXACTLY what everyone perceives it to mean.
Make no mistake about it.

12092008

nswfm(18:04:50) :

I call BS on poor victim Sarah.

She’s supposed to be a tough Hockey Mom. She’s supposed to be a Comander of Troops–Natl Guard. She’s a pitbull with lipstick. If she can’t take this piddly amount of heat, she needs to toughen up if she thinks she can take over McCain the cancer guy.

Oh, sorry. SHE thinks she’s ready. What a load of BS, the size of Alaska.

What would Putin say? What would any other leader say–sorry hunny, can’t deal with you ’cause you’re too big of a whiney baby?

She’ll start a nuclear war and we’ll all be under a dictatorship….

12092008

Proud2BUSA(18:05:38) :

LJP (17:56:36) : “Don’t be fooled about why we are seeing the full Karl Rove playbook. If it’s about the Supreme Court, it’s about power, power, power.”

I agree, but I think it is now much more sinister than overturning just Roe V Wade. These people are dark and appear to be so immersed in their own reality that includes starting Armageddon, a ruling class, one religion – they are truly frightful. They have been working on this for some time, and we have let them through our docile, lackadaisical approach to our elections. I’m with CATHERINE, (she of the great Student Council Poster fame which makes her qualified to run the entire media), I have never been engaged at this level. This year, we have so much at stake, and my prayer is that we are not too late. I don’t want to hand my son a Country that is so corrupt that it is dying from the inside – not on my watch.

1st thanks for supporting our 527 defendersactionfund.org ad. I sent in $50 & if we all sent in $10 this weekend we can get it aired in the swing statesVA FL OH MI and NH are swing states and need to see the effect of the McCain Palin environmental policies.

You’ve asked for a hard hitting 527 to put them on defense, the ad started airing in OH today and the response is very encouraging.
If you care about our country, our environment, our wildlife and our policies, get on the offensive and contribute.

I heard it earlier today on one of the CNN shows while I helping hubby put the finishing touches on the Mentor Convention for Disney.

One of the guests had a prediction and was saying not to be surprised.

Thats all I heard

12092008

John Doe(18:12:51) :

Every time I hear Palin talk about Alaska, she gives the distinct impression that she regards it as a foreign country (her AIP background kicking in?) rather than a part of the U.S. It wouldn’t surprise me in the least if she were to say that the state’s song is “Waltzing Matilda” and that the most common expression there is “We’ll throw a moose on the barbie for ya!”.

Mind you, I can appreciate that some states would like to secede, but someone running for (what is, in effect) the highest office in the land ought not be involved in sedition, which the AIP advocates (sorry, but that’s the truth of the matter) and you would think that it would be a fairly big issue (if our media weren’t all corporate owned and in the pocket of the GOP) in this race.

It’s amusing to see that separatists like Sarah ave no problem accepting the highest per capita federal earmarks for their state. Not much talk about that from the McCain campaign, eh?

I was standing in line at the grocery store today and scanned the National Enquirer ..anyone know if any of those stories near the truth ??

12092008

Proud2BUSA(18:13:28) :

Thanks, Amused and Bewildered! Watching. She has a seaplane???

12092008

Terrified in the Lower 48(18:13:31) :

re: Clinton stepping in

No way. No one would want a former President riding shotgun in their administration.

Hillary would have been no one’s VP choice.

12092008

Gina(18:14:22) :

Smitty:

I just made a contribution to defendersactionfund.org. Great idea!

12092008

Palmdale, CA(18:14:24) :

@ nswfm
If she starts a nuclear war, a whole lot of us will be crispy critters… those who aren’t just vaporized. She is truly terrifying. It’s like I felt at the height of the Cold War when people I knew were digging bomb shelters in their back yards.

Is everybody listening? I am disgusted by Lynn Westmoreland and ashamed that we live in the same state…Do not judge me because I live in GA ..I am an Obama supporter, I have donated several hundred dollars to Obama..

I refuse to watch it.
I just can not stand to hear her or to look at her.
She is a racist, crazy, lying wench and I will never subject my eyes to
face again if I can help it.
Even if she wins the freakin race.
I have already informed both of my children if she wins I will not step foot back into the United States while she is power.
I mean it too.

It occured to me that that is more or less what the Bush Administration has been doing for eight years. The movie we are all trapped in now is called “Reality Strikes Back.”

Any bets on the next big bank to go under? The next country to be invaded? Scary stuff is coming out of Venezuela.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(18:15:59) :

Palmdale, CA (18:14:24) : Nuclear War

I agree! I don’t “duck and cover” is going to do much for us this go ’round. Please tell me this is a just a bad dream.

12092008

Deb(18:17:04) :

did you notice how the right jumped all over his comment about Hillary…which I, call me silly, read as appropriate deference to her intelligence, experience, CLASS, etc. …as maybe being a better choice?? come on…Joe Biden has more class in his little finger than the whold republican party has!

Terrified, I KNOW!! What a great intro. on what is to follow (I hope). They’re showing part two of the blizzard of words now. I saw this earlier — KEEP YOUR EARS OPEN FOR THE WORD “EARFORM”! She says ‘reform’ so much that she slipped up, LOL.

Oh my.

I don’t think Charlie Gibson will be voting McCain/Palin. Now, how is Fox going to spin this one? More questions raised now, for sure. Let’s hope that the public gets smart, and quick!

No, Hillary Clinton is not replacing Joe Biden. Silly rumor, no doubt started by the Palin commment.

Gina
Good on you! Our 527 takes this campaign on the offensive and is factually accurate and true. It hits hard and is a peek into what our environment would be like under McCain/Palin “drill & kill baby, drill & kill”

If you want this campaign on the offense and want an issue that can’t be “delayed” by Rovian tactics, please contribute so that in the next week we can saturate VA OH MI and FL

ohmigod. I think Charlie Gibson should be vice president … he knows more than she does… but then my junior in college daughter knows more and she’s been out of the country more than SP has too… hmmm… Charlie… Daughter… Charlie… Daughter…

She has complete ties to Christian Right Extremists. She is utterly and totally owned by them. How else could she be here in our lives tonight (sans Mudflats who gets the pleasure of living with her year ’round).

Looks like it’s “three on a match” (old WWII term) for Lehman Brothers. No more $30 Billion bailouts for them from Uncle Sam (you and me). No more “Uncle Same”. Bear-Sterns. Then Fanny/Freddie. Now NOTHING left for the tin cup. If Lehman Brothers go under after 158 years of finance, we are in uncharted territory.

Have Gramps and Babs started to think about this yet? I know! Maybe HE or SHE will come up with a plan with US selling Alaska BACK to the Russians to stave off our financial collapse just like THEIR addled dysfunctional Aristocracy did in 1867?

She would look good in Russian fur and he can go too as the Czar of Alaska. First Dude too and all the little Palins. Cindy Lou too. A whole package deal. Oh yeah. Megen too.

All this in JUST EIGHT YEARS of the BushCo Administration guarding the hen house. The total Enronization of our economic system.

Good times.

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(18:26:56) :

judi: i am sure you saw him on colbert. all i have to do is think about him not knowing the ten commandments after saying he wanted the ten commandments posted on court buildings. i think any person who has ever seen him knows he is a clown!

IF it was Trak, that was pretty fast! (could explain why he was so quiet through all those convention speeches though).

It is widely rumored, though, that Track Palin has had problems with meth and coke and cut the brake lines on every school bus in Wasilla with a few of his buddies. Joining the army was apparently not entirely optional for him.

Funny, one of the very first posts I saw after the Palin pick announcement was a post from an Alaskan would that said Palin’s kids “could be an issue.”

12092008

Gina(18:27:17) :

Catherine (17:56:49)

Same. But now mudflats is my lifeline and I’m donating, emailing, talking, forwarding links, etc. You’re in good company here. I come every day to find thinking and compassionate people who never fail to remind me not to lose faith in humanity.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(18:27:19) :

She is a sociopath.

12092008

Deb(18:27:29) :

yay…pat buchanan just said for NATO to accept georgia would be catastrophic…..and said in reference to sarah ” in politics as romance, slow introductions are usually better than fast ones”

12092008

sauerkraut(18:27:29) :

Cassie – I am here but still reading down thru the 78 pages. Does take a bit. And there’s not much info there. Some of it looks legit in terms of priv. designation. But there are those T. Palin entries. And a bunch of names about whom I know nothing, especially not if they worked in a position whereby priv. is relevant (e.g., T. Palin).

I believe you are correct, Kenny. Even if the rules are somewhat different in NY.

nswfm – I believe that’s what is called hubris. Hubris and a bag of cow manure will probably grow some nice tomato plants next year. 🙂

plwalsh – you must raise your hand and ask for permission before you go to the bathroom.

Thanks to you alls for pointing out the cafepress store… I’m thinking about getting me a nice black/yellow bumper sticker to pass out to my friends… what few I have left after spending so much time here the past couple of weeks.

Michigander – welcome but chill. this is a great place to trade ideas and make referals to some really great and on-point information, don’t you think? Please don’t be a PUMA and try to censor the flow of info, okay?

12092008

Diva(18:27:34) :

“Even if she refuses to testify voluntarily, Sarah Palin will definitely not be subpoenaed as part of the Trooper-Gate investigation, Rep. Jay Ramras, a Republican on the committee overseeing the probe, just confirmed to TPMmuckraker.

Ramras said that issuing a subpoena for a vice-presidential candidate “would be disrespectful.” He called it “inappropriate conduct, given the unique political circumstances,” and “bad form.”

Lets Get Real
I really hate repeating stuff from that rag..but I guess it is out there.
There is a story of Palins son going into the Army , because of problems with the law..his heavy drug use, addiction to Oxycontin and other problems with the law,
also how the Palins kicked their daughter out of the house when she told them she was Pregnant and how Livi has said he doesn’t want marriage or kids right now and was forced to play the happy groom.
Another story I didn’t scan but just saw the headline was about an affair..
All of this was from anonymous sources which to me doesn’t give it wings..
Nayone know any thing?/

12092008

Terrified in the Lower 48(18:28:08) :

“Maybe I’m wrong”….not as wrong as McCain’s decision to put you on this ticket

We’re getting the word out to voters about Governor Sarah Palin’s barbaric record on killing America’s wildlife, especially her active promotion of the brutal aerial hunting of wolves and bears.

Since Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund released our hard-hitting video on her support for the wolf slaughter last week…

Nearly 450,000 potential voters have read our email!
More than 68,000 potential voters have viewed the video on YouTube, with many more spread the word by re-posting the video on their websites and blogs and forwarding it to friends.
CNN and other news outlets have picked up the story, running clips from Defenders of Wildlife Action fund and our sister organization Defenders of Wildlife.
To reach hundreds of thousands of swing voters who will help decide this election, we’ve created a powerful new television spot detailing Governor Palin’s efforts to kill wolves and bears. But we can only run it with your financial help today.

Click here to watch our new television ad on Governor Palin’s support for aerial hunting and help us run it on television stations starting in Ohio, one of the handful of swing states that will decide the election.

Warning: This television ad — like the governor’s support for this brutal practice — is disturbing.

Kathryn, running a television ad during an election year is expensive. We need to raise $100,000 by September 17th to run this ad and support our work to provide a voice for endangered wildlife.

We’ve had hundreds of calls and emails from our supporters urging us to get the word out on Governor Palin’s bounty proposal to reward wolf killers with a $150 check and her support for aerial hunting of wolves and bears. Please donate $40 or whatever you can afford today to help us raise the funds we need to get the word out.

We have plenty of work to do.

As governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin has proposed paying a $150 bounty for the foreleg of each dead wolf. The aerial hunting program she champions has already killed nearly 800 wolves. She’s opposed efforts to save America’s polar bears from extinction. She’s fought against efforts to save some of the world’s most endangered beluga whales.

At nearly every opportunity, Governor Palin has sided with Big Oil, mining companies, wealthy trophy hunters and other entrenched special interests in support of policies that would greatly harm the wild animals we treasure.

American voters deserve to know the truth about Governor Sarah Palin’s record that’s killing our wildlife. Please donate today to help us run our new ad in Ohio next week, a key swing state.

With the election less than 50 days away, we don’t have much time to help voters learn about the real Sarah Palin. Please donate $40 or whatever you can afford today to help us spread the word.

She’s got an answer for everything, and the low info voters ” are going to eat it up…

yes, I caved, I am watching the wench

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(18:29:57) :

plwalsh: i heard awhile back that there were issues with husband todd and his flings with a few women. nothing seems to have come from this. am i the only person who saw this?

12092008

Cynthia, TX(18:30:31) :

I think what you have to understand about Palin is she really does not know the answer, but what she does is injects her personality into her thoughts more than the substance of her answers. The tactic works because it’s easy to forget what you have asked her because her personality wraps you into it. But, the people who are wise to her interviewing style see right through it. But, the ones not really wanting to see Palin for what she really is gets lost.

To sum up my thought on her she is well above her competency level and the only way she continues to survive is to shield her from true journalist.

12092008

Lulu(18:30:38) :

Re: the Biden rumor. No. Why would Biden possibly step aside? He is going to be in–and win–one of the most watched VP debates in the USA history. Biden is going to become a very big hero in about 3 weeks.

Hillary doesn’t want to go after Sarah Palin. As Wolfson et al have already pointed out numerous times, it’s a lose-lose situation for the Dems and HRC if she does. A lose for the Dems, because it gives Palin too much weight (SP is SUCH a dimwit, as we now know), and HRC’s political stature is so much higher that it would tarnish HRC to be seen in a “catfight” with Palin.

Plus, does anyone else feel that it’s really sort of sexist to say that only a woman can debate a woman properly? As a feminist, I certainly feel that way, anyway. Either you’re ready for the real world or you’re not, regardless of gender. But perhaps some of you disagree?

We’re getting the word out to voters about Governor Sarah Palin’s barbaric record on killing America’s wildlife, especially her active promotion of the brutal aerial hunting of wolves and bears.

Since Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund released our hard-hitting video on her support for the wolf slaughter last week…

Nearly 450,000 potential voters have read our email!
More than 68,000 potential voters have viewed the video on YouTube, with many more spread the word by re-posting the video on their websites and blogs and forwarding it to friends.
CNN and other news outlets have picked up the story, running clips from Defenders of Wildlife Action fund and our sister organization Defenders of Wildlife.
To reach hundreds of thousands of swing voters who will help decide this election, we’ve created a powerful new television spot detailing Governor Palin’s efforts to kill wolves and bears. But we can only run it with your financial help today.

Click http://actionfund.defenders.org/palintv to watch our new television ad on Governor Palin’s support for aerial hunting and help us run it on television stations starting in Ohio, one of the handful of swing states that will decide the election.

Warning: This television ad — like the governor’s support for this brutal practice — is disturbing.

Kathryn, running a television ad during an election year is expensive. We need to raise $100,000 by September 17th to run this ad and support our work to provide a voice for endangered wildlife.

We’ve had hundreds of calls and emails from our supporters urging us to get the word out on Governor Palin’s bounty proposal to reward wolf killers with a $150 check and her support for aerial hunting of wolves and bears. Please donate $40 or whatever you can afford today to help us raise the funds we need to get the word out.

We have plenty of work to do.

As governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin has proposed paying a $150 bounty for the foreleg of each dead wolf. The aerial hunting program she champions has already killed nearly 800 wolves. She’s opposed efforts to save America’s polar bears from extinction. She’s fought against efforts to save some of the world’s most endangered beluga whales.

At nearly every opportunity, Governor Palin has sided with Big Oil, mining companies, wealthy trophy hunters and other entrenched special interests in support of policies that would greatly harm the wild animals we treasure.

American voters deserve to know the truth about Governor Sarah Palin’s record that’s killing our wildlife. Please donate today to help us run our new ad in Ohio next week, a key swing state.

With the election less than 50 days away, we don’t have much time to help voters learn about the real Sarah Palin. Please donate $40 or whatever you can afford today to help us spread the word.

Sorry for the double post, has no idea how that occurred.
I was just correcting my typing, must have inadvertantly hit the enter button.
Lets hoe Pinocchio Palin doesn’t do that with Launch Codes.

12092008

THWv(18:32:33) :

The following post is one reminder to speak up! http://glassishalffull.net/blog/?paged=2 . I made a copy of this post and I pass it on to whom ever I can. Dagan68 writes, “I often wondered in all my years of history courses how the citizens of the Roman Republic or Nazi Germany let it happen. I do not have to wonder anymore…”
We just received our copy of the book “They Thought They Were Free”.

@Lulu–
I thought HRC would come out swinging. I know she has hit the campaign trail this week. But, I agree that if she comes after Palin she is taking herself down to a level that she does not deserve to be at. Maybe, HRC’s silence in regards to Palin is the best thing for all.

12092008

Geraldine(18:36:35) :

I heard on one of the news shows that most US citizens did not feel that their standing in the world had fallen over the past eight years. It has and it needs to be re-established to represent the true nature of the US people. My son is a Canadian Olympic athlete. Over the past five or six years, while traveling around the world, he has been asked on many occasions to lend his clothing (bearing a Canadian crest) to US team members in order for them to avoid adverse comments or abuse.
Obama can restore the glory to Old Glory and the rest of the world can sleep in peace.

12092008

Proud2BUSA(18:36:59) :

I don’t get it. There is a sign in my neighborhood for McFaust and his Hand Maiden with FAMILY FIRST underneath. In my newfound Mudflatters bravery, I calmly complimented his landscaping and then had to ask what about family first was he talking about? Her son the junkie? Her knocked up teenage daughter? I asked if he had teenagers (he has kids in college about the same age as mine). I asked him is that how you raised your kids ’cause it sure is not how I’ve tried to raise mine. Mine gets a swift whoopa** if he got out of line. We WERE at the PTA meetings. We WERE aware of his school work, his friends, had GPS put on his phone, put trackers on his laptops, took down the bedroom door at one point. What kind of Family First is this? I’m really sincerely confused as it is not what Dr. Dobson has talked about in his past. It’s certainly now what any of us want for our children. Who’s Family First is this? I was pleasant, just smiled when I asked the question – and I told him I hoped he had a good day and he and his Family First qualities would be in my prayers He still had this “duh” look on his face as we walked away. . . who are these people? Children of the Corn or Night of the Living Dead, and I’m voting for the latter.

12092008

Lulu(18:39:17) :

Proud2BUSA, my hat is off to you! Every day you inspire me with your thoughts and stories.

12092008

Gina(18:39:58) :

Proud –
You ROCK!

12092008

Amused and Bewildered(18:40:04) :

EVERYONE, PLEASE GO TO ABC’S WEBSITE over the weekend — write to the show and post on the message board there to let them know what a great job Charlie Gibson did!! He’s going to get heat from this. I never really liked him before but I sure do now!!!

Please, God, let the American people not be stupid!! I actually feel badly for John McCain’s supporters. Even though he is not my candidate of choice, I don’t think he’s a bad guy.

Palin — good for the ticket, bad for the country.

12092008

galwhohashadenough!(18:40:09) :

@proudUSA–my neighbor down the street has the same sign. My son & I just looked at..I said to son..”Please don’t steal the sign”! Because, I know that is what we all want to do. I’m really trying to take the high road here. But, if I could I would go steal that sign! LOL

McCain has completely reignited the Culture Wars. If he is elected, everyone is going to be going around in mutual moral incomprehension for four years.

12092008

Deb(18:40:59) :

proud…

lol@ “children of the corn”

12092008

DownInMississippi aka Jeep Pike(18:42:00) :

Anonymous–Kenny, NY Attorney,

On privilege: thanks for straightening out that issue on privilege. I was actually scrolling down to add a note about confidentiality–but you covered it.

Sauerkrat, just exactly how do you think attorney/client will cover those subpoenas? I don’t know a judge down here in Mississippi who would find attorney/client privilege applicable. Maybe I am misunderstanding the point you are trying to make . . .

I’m an attorney in private practice and formerly clerked for a federal judge. The only issue I see is with Executive Privilege and that, as pointed out by all, has been blown out of the water by the cc to First Dude.

In the dark

12092008

Rhett O'Rical(18:42:12) :

judi: ca has arnold schwarzenegger. he represents the whole damn state! how embarrassing.

12092008

Deb(18:42:35) :

my lawyer sister had to remind me of this tonight….mainstream media IS big corporation…and their coverage of palin surprises you?

Did anyone notice how often she used the word “efficiencies” when only the word “inefficiencies” would have made any sense at all? Looking for “efficiencies” in the “agencies” to improve the economy. . . Ouch. I’m actually starting to feel a little sorry for her.

Good night, Mudflatians. I’ve got a TON of work to catch up on in the am.

12092008

timc(18:45:34) :

If Joe steps down it will entirely be his call. Probably announce he would accept Sec of State in administration. Obama has too much character to play this game. That said, if the numbers look bad in a few weeks Hilary may come into play.

Talk about a soap opera. The repubs would scream bloody murder but buzz would move back to Obama.

12092008

DownInMississippi aka Jeep Pike(18:46:30) :

Ha Ha Proud2BUSA,

I thought I was the only crazy, working mom who actually took the bedroom door down!

12092008

Deb(18:46:43) :

attorney “dudes” here…..are they subpoening (sp?) Todd Palin for access to emails that he might have in addition to any inquiries he might have made? and will that subpoena (emails) stand up if it’s a cc??

12092008

sauerkraut(18:47:16) :

glib, very glib.

but if she has no problem with the troopergate materials, why is she fighting it?

12092008

Gina(18:48:52) :

I don’t think dropping Biden would be a good move. It would look like Obama doesn’t trust his own judgment. He’d be a “flip flopper”. Indecisive. Unable to make up his mind. It would generate buzz, but not the good kind. I’m not sure it would sit well. OK, now I’m going to bed!

12092008

Lulu(18:49:32) :

@ timc, I guess anything is possible, but Obama has run a flawless campaign thus far (IMHO) and I highly doubt he would make an error in picking his VP. Just my lil 2 cents on it…

@amused & bewildered, thanks for the reminder. I’d been meaning to write a letter of support for Charlie Gibson all day. I had been against him after the Democratic primary fiasco but he really surprised me.

12092008

Deb(18:49:40) :

ok….I would hope that biden won’t step out….cuz I like him a lot…but if this is a “game” …..and we have to win……pulling a “hillary” maverick call in the last few weeks would be HILL-arious!

12092008

Bystander(18:50:36) :

How does everyone feel Palin is handling this 20/20 interview?

I think she’s coming off as a quick study and hitting talking points that will fire up her base and her opponents. At times, I feel she comes off as a hack, giving pretty much nothing answers or stock answers. But I won’t be surprised if overall this interview is viewed favorably. Not necessarily by pundits, but by the average voter, who is not one to spend much time across various media sources. The debates get a bump.

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(18:50:51) :

@DownMississippi –

Hey! We do it right in the South. No talk back to your mama. Ever. Ever. Ever.

damn it!! I can’t get 20/20 yet! you guys are spoiling the climax! (as if with sarah we don’t KNOW the climax….it involves WAR…..scary)

12092008

makeitgoaway(18:54:29) :

It would make no sense at all for Biden to step down…why would it even be a thought? I see him as a complete asset to BO. And if the thought is that HRC would then slip into that spot it would immediately be the end of the run for BO. Not because of Hillary but because it would indicate a serious flaw in the organization and decision-making. That’s a rumor that needs to be quashed immediately.

I saw somewhere (probably here) that there was speculation that if indeed McCain/Palin win (God forbid!) we might just see Gov. Mooselini step down because of ‘family issues’ and behold…Joe Lieberman takes her place. I still believe that the GOP never saw the advantages/disadvantages of running the Gov on the ticket but I can just see them all now figuring out a way to dump her should they actually win. Look closely at McCain when they’re side-by-side…he looks mighty nervous…as he should be!

My typing is getting atrocious.
Thinks perhaps its time I grab nice cold something.
I need to knock back a couple after listening to this wench.
Wishes I had stuck to my guns and not watched her.
Lesson learned.

12092008

sauerkraut(18:55:52) :

Deb – hard to say because no one has yet seen the subpoena’s.

Jeep – there are a ton of names on the list; I threw ACP in there because it’s part and parcel of nearly every litigation – even where no ACP is actually present. If you’ll note, I make several references to delay and “in camera” reviews. imho, the primary tactic will be to stall, stall and stall. And if ANWR gets drilled, drilled drilled in the interim, Palin will be mighty happy and probably won’t give a rat’s ass about what finally happens with troopergate.

btw – as to Joe Biden stepping down. Palin will step down before he does. Give up the Hillary ghost. She burned her bridges with Obama in her efforts to get the nomination; he’s not going to forget some of the personal stuff she and her people hurled at him.

12092008

timc(18:56:06) :

Lulu,

I do not think it will be necessary for Biden to step aside but to me the problem with Dems is sticking to principles even when they keep them from reaching goals. Obama knows what he is doing. The campaign is aware of what is going on but if things do not go their way the sign of a great leader is to be able to identify when a plan is not working and make any and all adjustments necessary.

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(18:56:13) :

@Bystander – she is coming across with at least a little more polish than she has in the past. It is still a sophomoric (spelling – it’s late) attempt at looking well-read in these matters. Most sane people would run the other way not because we’re insecure, but because we know better! I admire her chutzpah. I really admire her nice seaplane. She will appeal to some voters because she is talking at their level. I want my President to be much, much smarter than I could ever try to be…and Obama definitely is!

Torrie Clarke, political analyst and former McCain staffer Tori Clarke: “OK on this answer…needs work on this answer. looked uncomfortable on some questions…those people who were wavering, I don’t think they’ve (made up their mind)”

They continue giving observations, but, all in all, still seems to be some questions. Wasn’t crash ‘n burn and wasn’t hit out of the park.

They just need to give her [Palin] a lot of rope…….we all know what happens then

Take her out of the microscope…let her be herself…..I think she’s a bit of an egomaniac that will become over confident and basically sink herself.

It’s about McSame we cannot let the republicans retain the white house we can’t

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(18:59:47) :

The Weather Channel is running the Save the Polar Bear Commercial. I would just LOVE for that commercial to run during the debates. Prayers to our Mudflatters in Texas.

12092008

Deb(19:00:17) :

thanks tim…
reflects what I posted last night from another source (which I can’t remember cuz I’ve read so many in the last 2 weeks) Kipling-
“if you can keep you head when those around you
are losing theirs
and blaming you….”

Obama ’08

we need each other to stay SANE here!

12092008

Let'sGetReal(19:00:50) :

Why do you guys take yourself thru that torture, and watch her? Yuck!!!!

On another note. Obama would not allow Joe Biden to step down, they both have integrity, honor, and trust each other!

They just can’t play those games. I trust things will work themselves out, of course I am trying to convince myself of this.

12092008

makeitgoaway(19:01:31) :

Someone farther up in the posts discussed what those outside of the US think of all of this. I’m in the music biz and work with a number of musicians in Europe. Granted, those of us in the biz tend to be a bit more liberal than average but it amazes me how seriously involved my colleagues across the pond are in following this particular election and everyone of them expresses that the general tenor in their respective countries (Great Britain, Ireland, Gemany, Spain and Italy) is a great affection for Obama, complete disdain for Bush and an intense fear of the prospect of dealing with McCain/Palin.

12092008

Cynthia, TX(19:03:39) :

she’s not ready.

to be honest and I hope this does not sound bad but Palin is really not smart of enough to be placed in that job. I think after listening to the few sound bytes she is clearly not ready, not smart enough and can not and I repeat can not help run this country. If you like where we are then she is your girl.

12092008

Let'sGetReal(19:05:43) :

Bill Maher called Sarah a Cat 5

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(19:05:51) :

Couple of things and then it’s lights out.

1) Obama is doing the right things. His Campaign Manager, however, is not going on the attack. There are SO many things to attack nowadays, and I know it is a thin line between getting down in the squalor with those goons and attacking them. He just has to come on out – I haven’t seen the Voted with Bush 90% of the time – in awhile. There are SO many issues to attack – heck, I would love to see a commercial with McCain just dottering about and about and about – segueway into the POW testimonial that was posted earlier this evening about why one should not vote for McCain (POW’s dying younger than counterparts) and then end with: Is this what you want America? and then just pound Delusional Doll with fact after fact after fact.

2) We have to get to the women who thinks she is “just like [them]” Gosh, that’s scary – makes me think of the Brown-Shirted Police from Hitler’s era. I can’t seem to get what makes her so attractive to them except the cutsey bylines. Thoughts?

make –
with all appreciation for your support here (those of us who chose the ask questions BEFORE shooting first) saying to the RIGHTEOUS right-wing…that anyone outside of the us supports obama is not accepted….and quickly downplayed by that right….it’s not about diplomacy, it’s about POWER. sad state of affairs for the US, huh?

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(19:08:50) :

@makeitgoaway –

PLEASE PLEASE throw us a bone and let them know that we are trying. It would really help if we could get some support – smoke signals – anything from anyone over there to show the Americans how dumb we are looking. . . thanks for caring. We do, too!

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(19:11:51) :

Harley – thank you for your offer, but it truly defines your individuality and unique sense of humor. Everytime I see it, I just chuckle.

I personally want a mushroom cloud for my avatar. How can I get one of them – figuratively now….I know Gramps and Simple Sarah can’t wait to their greasy little paws on the Big Red NU-CLEAR-UR (am I getting better there?) button.

Hey folks just wanted to say I think Im going on a fishing trip for a bit, no real reason really, but I’ll probly not be picking up my mail/email/phone for a while & I’m not sure exactly where I’ll be or when I’ll be back, dont try to get in touch.

LOL @ my wonderful typing skills, I bet Palin would have loved me as her secretary, those emails would have been unreadable and she would not have to worry about them.

12092008

Bystander(19:14:51) :

She strikes me as someone who can or will eventually talk the game to reasonable effect, but nonetheless doesn’t display or evoke that depth of thought that can only be achieved (and perhaps perceived) as a result of having actually given effort to honest consideration of the questions, issues. Quality hours, perfect practice. It’s undoubtedly not a new observation, but it’s very much like a beauty queen giving answers in a pageant. Not necessarily stilted, but definitely not authentic or academic or something other than superficial.

Proud, hubby just said he will make it for you.
I will give him my downloaded one so he can reproduce the right size for Gravatar.

I am assuming you mean a Nuclear Mushroom cloud correct?

12092008

2killamockingbird(19:16:34) :

You know it is grand to one up, but the point here is to elect Barack Obama as our next pesident..Are we losing perspective here?

12092008

2killamockingbird(19:17:51) :

president that is…isn’t that what we all want?

12092008

DownInMississippi aka Jeep Pike(19:19:13) :

Proud2B/Krinkle Bearcat,

Seems to me that some women (dumb ones) are confusing the appeal they see in the WolfHater as a purely entertainment value. What they are really expressing is their desire to see this dimwit in a reality show. That is the only way I can make it have any sense to me.

On another note, I see some relatively smart people out there who haven’t bothered to do a bit of independent research and are just repeating what they see on Fox. They think she is just great because Fox says so.

Just watched the second interview with Charlie Gibson. All I can say is she is so STUPID. Her answers on the economy were completely vague and meaningless. Anyone who votes her into office deserves what they get. And if I hear her use the word “appropriate” one more time I will puke.

I also hate her wicked, thin little upper lip. 😉

I thought DeeDee Myers and Torrie Clarke were nauseatingly bland in their comments.

I fear there is not enough alcohol in the world to get me safely through the next two months.

(Gina – Montclair is about 12 miles due west of the City. We need to organize a Mudflats Tribute Fest at the TickTock Diner on Route3! 🙂 )

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(19:35:53) :

@Harley –

The Jim Crawford piece really needs some national attention. . . this is scary on many levels. As another poster wrote this evening, the intent of the Rovian Party is to capture the Supreme Court. When I went back and watch the THE VIEW where honorary Mudflatter Whoopi asked that direct question, McCain never really said “yes” or “no.” I think we all wanted that and so we subliminaly saw that. . . and then for the audience to applaud when he said, “…uh, we won’t bring slavery back…” I think is just appalling. Where is everyone? I honestly do believe Americans have just dropped out of this important aspect of our very existance in favor of Reality Shows and Entertainment. I am gravely concerned. Roe v Wade is just the beginning of this rhapsody of hate if we don’t do something. Okay – MY hubby is going to take away my laptop if I don’t scoot on to bed. Thank you and your husband. I am sorry for the train crash – finally on CNN.

12092008

makeitgoaway(19:38:09) :

‘Krinkle Bearcat” AKA Proud….let me tell you if they could donate to the cause they would! There is some real fear out there that should we elect the wrong team it’s not only the US that ends up toast, it’s the rest of the free world along with us.

That being said, most conservative and rightwing factions would cite the fact that people in Europe want Obama as the very reason why we shouldnt elect him….the attitude being ‘i’ll be damned if I’m going to let the rest of the world tell us how to run our country.

I just finished watching Washington Week with Gwen Ifel. There was a panel of mostly women journalists and it struck me as I listened to each of them weigh in on critical foreign policy issues from Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Russia, that each one of them is infinitely more qualified to run as VP than Palin is. Each one had a clear handle on policy, history, current events and strategy.

12092008

judi(19:39:31) :

I just hope we are not losing our focus here….We want Barack Obama to be our next president! We can laugh at Palin and make fun of here (and God knows she is laughable) but I wonder if we aren’t playing into the Repug’s hands…They want us to focus on Palin, not the issues…
just a thought

12092008

whabs(19:40:28) :

@ AKM
“Yes, she’s the one that was mocked and derided on a local radio show while Palin giggled.”

I heard this and was absolutely disgusted. It is a beautiful thing when you can see Karma in action.

12092008

Aussie Puck Mule(19:44:28) :

Proud, you really do rock! Whether you know it or not, you’re changing lives.

Are you aware of any pitfalls these newly-registered voters might encounter with their registrations?

Do you have a strategy for getting these voters to the polling place on voting day?

Do you know which voting system will be in use? Will you have someone on hand to explain any ‘difficulties’ to first-time voters? Do you know whether there is a paper and pencil option?

Oh my, I do sound a nag – but makes my teeth hurt when I see what evil stunts the GOP pulls.

Well, it’s getting late here on the east coast so I’m going to go to bed with a happy thought. This thing is a novelty, McCain pulled a trinket out of the bag and called it a running mate, the trinket was a pretty little thing that everyone swooned over for awhile, but as with all novelty items, the novelty wears off and the new trinket shine dulls and everyone loses interest in it. With every new thing you learn about the little trinket the less it appeals to you.
This particular little trinket has been dropped in the mud and has no shine left and the mud wont wash off. Palin’s savagery against wildlife has been exposed, her lies have been verified as lies and even her face is starting to look less pretty.
John McCain got his tail caught in the middle of the ladies on The View and turned white trying to worm out of their calling him on his lies. This race is over, McCain and Palin have nowhere left to turn, they’ll keep up their lying attacks on Obama, but it’ll just be going through the motions, there’s not enough people left who will believe them anymore. Sure, some hardcore extreme right fanatics will still vote for them, but most normal run of the mill citizens that consider themselves Republican have already lost their faith in them, even AARP (that’s 40 million people over the age of 50) prefers Obama over McCain, and I thought McCain had the lead with older people.
Everyone sleep well tonight in the knowledge that McCain made the right choice in a running mate, the one that guarantees he will never live in the White House. Thumbs up to McCain for killing his own campaign by choosing BimboBush for a running mate.

12092008

iona(19:49:02) :

Hi all. thanks for all your posts. today volunteered to be election observer. I was in Tallahassee last time, don’t want that to happen again.

Rhett and Proud2B, thanks for “It Can’t Happen Here” and “Miracle at Philly” – I will definitely check out. Also THW, thanks for your post and I will pass it on. Always looking for good books/articles for my writing class. We always start with Viktor Frankl’s book “Man’s Search for Meaning” about his experience in the camps during WWII. How does one survive – how? purpose. life is asking something of us. not only for ourselves, but for the future, for each other. without that purpose, we cannot make it. and we need to do it together.

Another great film, please watch “The Color of Freedom” about Nelson Mandela’s guard. talk about change. Also a film “Sophie Scholl” about the White Rose student movement during Nazi Germany. I’ve also heard about “Iron Jawed Angels” haven’t seen it yet, but will, about women’s vote. Which I believe was passed by one, ONE, vote.

We are a great big powerful country. We are living through a moment of radical, radical change. Sometimes I think we have been ever since we used atomic weapons – we have been lost since then, I think. It’s manifest destiny all over again. “We” have the right to invade and destroy nations cause it’s our “God-given” right. We are told there is no other way but power and armed conflict. Another lie to add to the long list of lies told in this campaign.

they use the phrase “left behind” – unfortunate choice of words in this context! – but worth checking out. We are not alone! Think of the day after this election. What will we do? what next? as someone (and I apologize I can’t remember who!) posted, this is only the beginning.

It’s so easy to get pulled into a vortex of despair, paranoia, and fear. I read this post and take action to keep myself connected to the positive energy that is hope and change right now. I think?? we have to be ready to answer what life is asking of us. Think of all this country has gone through, and how it has changed so much. Just in my lifetime, it is amazing. No matter how it was resisted by power, Hitler fell, apartheid ended. That is the truth and the truth will prevail. Love and truth will always, always endure.

I am checking on voting info. for accuracy and will pass it on for what it’s worth.

back to reading this blog!

xo

12092008

Deb(19:49:12) :

proud…as I implied earlier…she IS, in fact, rove with lipstick…unfortunately the average voter doesn’t understand how dangerous that is…..I’d take a pig ANY day over that!

@makeitgoaway: “There is some real fear out there that should we elect the wrong team it’s not only the US that ends up toast, it’s the rest of the free world along with us. ”

We understand, and I understand you can’t donate or officially meddle.

I actually think those in the European Union can be okay. It used to be that there was only one Super Power and one economy that drove the global economy. I don’t think that is the case any longer. EMEA is as large as the US Market by now, right? Many of us are very sad to watch the decay of this wonderful Country. It is inevitable as it was with the Roman Empire, but we need to fight for it as long as we can as democracy is a wonderful thing. Americans, for good or bad, have historically been very independent thinkers. We have turned into a society of lazy thinkers who are constantly on search for the latest morsel of escape. Too bad they don’t realize how good we have it. A lot has been written this season on American politics and how playing dirty is typical. I have watched a degradation of mutual respect, truth and honor since 2000. It is a testament to our current administration and if the Republican ticket prevails, America will get what it asks for which is scary indeed. Thank you for your kind thoughts. We are trying. Many of us are going door to door trying to get the vote out. We may not have the opportunity in four years. The time is now.

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(20:14:51) :

@Pam – re Article on Blogging –

OH, I so disagree. Without this site, I would not have been able to compile information for local debate. I would not have had the time nor the creativity of many of the bloggers here to develop quick quips or responses. This blog has generated conversations with people of both like- and different-mind. The conservative commentator is missing the point as well as breaking the law if he is using Churches to disseminate political information! This blog is the very reason I walked from door to door to door in 90+ degree heat today to ensure folks were registered to vote. This is an energizing forum and we are fortunate to have Muckracker in our lives and living rooms.Thanks Krinkle. You made my day. AKM aka Engine Nighthawk Palin

12092008

Let'sGetReal(20:17:26) :

Goodnight everyone, enjoy your night! Go out and hit the pavement for Obama/Biden this weekend! Make calls, get the facts out to the public!

12092008

arkangel3(20:18:19) :

“State Senate President Lyda Green now must authorize them before they are issued. Yes, she’s the one that was mocked and derided on a local radio show while Palin giggled.” AKM

Ain’t payback a bitch! 😀

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(20:24:12) :

@Aussie Puck Mule (19:44:28) : I’m going to bed after this!!!

Q1. Are you aware of any pitfalls these newly-registered voters might encounter with their registrations?
A. We discussed this today as we were doing our thing. The challenge for many of these guys is the transportation, the ability to get off from work to vote, and the staredown by some companies who do not want a Democratic presidency. One middle age man worked at Wal-Mart and he kept looking around to see if the Wal-Mart Police were watching him talk to these three dedicated Americans. Imagine!! Being scared to vote. I assured him that he didn’t have to have an affiliation. I cannot commit to him that his vote would be held confidential because I don’t that – it is supposed to be. He was very nervous and said that he needed his job. I do, too, but it is my civic responsbility to vote. Of course, after McCain’s debut with Honorary Mudflatter Whoopi, I can understand more intimately.

Q2. Do you have a strategy for getting these voters to the polling place on voting day?
A. Yes.

Q3. Do you know which voting system will be in use? Will you have someone on hand to explain any ‘difficulties’ to first-time voters? Do you know whether there is a paper and pencil option?
A. As you know, we cannot go into the booth with them and if we are identified as working for a particular campaign, one has to stay so many feet away. All we can do is prepare them with a sample ballot and go over with them what they may experience. I agree it can be daunting the first time. My son had gone into the voting booth with me all of his life, and he is getting to vote for the first time this year and is scared because he may mess up. You have to encourage people that they can vote on the ballot. I am focused on the President and Governor this year. If we can get people to vote for those two (whichever way they choose, just vote!) it will be a step forward.

Oh my, I do sound a nag – but makes my teeth hurt when I see what evil stunts the GOP pulls.

Yes, I know and understand. It is our biggest fear. But we have to be fearless and do what we can in each of our communities. I cannot stand idly by – it is my right at this point in time to have free speech and participate in elections, and I intend to use it to full advantage!!! Have a great night, and thanks for your kind words.

12092008

whabs(20:28:28) :

I left work today as my employer’s girlfriend came home with a local Gregoire sign and an Obama sign. They are both Clinton supporters.
As I was leaving today (for NINE days of vacation!) he tossed me $50.00 and told me to do something nice for myself while on vacation. I tacked it on my door when I got home and decided “it” would come to me.
I have a donation to make. Call it a potential investment.

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(20:31:11) :

@DEB: she IS, in fact, rove with lipstick…unfortunately the average voter doesn’t understand how dangerous that is…..I’d take a pig ANY day over that!

LMAO. I don’t know. Rove is definitely a genius, albeit an evil one. The verdict is out on Caribou Barbie. . . I’m hoping as one of the posts wrote she is just shiny and new now, but I do fear that there is so little time to get to know her, that we have the chance to vet her internationally for four years. I continue to wonder what Putin must be planning – if Obama wins, that’s good for the international community and we may be able to quickly shore up support. If the other party wins, don’t hold your breath there will be a skirmish almost immediately. I don’t know how the brilliant minds of McCain and Don’t Blink Barbie can think we have the resources (human, financial, physical) to support war on all fronts…..

12092008

obamamama(20:31:28) :

proud2busa
Thank you for your posts and encouragement. We all need to work on this together. From the bottom up.
Let’s go and do our parts

12092008

Proud2BUSA aka Krinkle Bearcat(20:33:27) :

WAY TO GO WABS!!!! AND THANKS! We need all the help we can get – why don’t you ask your trusty employer to give you guys a paid day off to “do as you please” and you volunteer? We need you!!! It’s door to door now. The next three weeks are crucial.

Why is Todd Palin’s bio not listed in on the McCain website? Normally the spouses bio’s are posted too. Is he that boring? Or is there something about him they don’t want us to know?

Todd’s bio was scrubbed from Palin’s website right after her selection. Haven’t seen it since… I’m sure he’s not boring.
AKM

12092008

ds55(20:56:12) :

@ tonya: He’s probably a high school dropout. Whatcha bet?

12092008

tonya(21:28:39) :

no doubt!

12092008

LibertyLover(21:30:22) :

AKM — I have an honest question that I honestly don’t know the answer to:

In the court of law, a spouse cannot be compelled to testify against their other half. Why does this not apply before the Legislature as well? How can they compel Mr. Palin to testify? Or is the object just to get him in before the legislature to plead the 5th?

I’m sure this will be brought up. However, as of right now she is trying to invoke ‘executive privelage’ for those emails despite the fact he is a private citizen. She is trying to apply this to emails between Todd and administration, administration with other administration, and between her and …well….everybody. After that is rejected, I’m sure she’ll be on to what you mention… The main idea of course is to delay this until after the election.
AKM

12092008

Enjay aka Turbine Yukon(21:34:12) :

This is such a great place to come & relax – forget my troubles – have a glass or two, enjoy the company & comments

Did anyone find it “eerie” that when she was asked to be VP, she didn’t need to consider it? I would take serious stock of the effect on my family, my lifestyle (big fish in small pond – vs – little fish in big pond), and would ponder my strengths & weakness’s before accepting such a position.

Then again – maybe God told her

12092008

SEAlaskanWoman(22:44:34) :

“arkangel3 (13:38:56) :” Asks:

“Has anyone thought about WHY Todd Palin might have been on those e-mails? Although Sarah is the Governor, perhaps she demurs to Todd even on matters of State because he is the HUSBAND and she is the WIFE? ”

Why do you think people here in Juneau call him the Co-governor?

12092008

DownInMississippi aka Jeep Pike(23:20:21) :

Turbine Yukon,
I vote for God told her.

Liberty,
A spouse cannot be forced to testify against his/her spouse because he/she can claim spousal privilege. Spousal privilege is a confidential communication between spouses. If Sarah told Todd, “I’m gonna fire Walt because he wouldn’t fire Wooten,” Todd could claim spousal privilege and not have to answer to questions about what Sarah said to Todd. But where the communication to husband is shared with third parties, it loses its confidentiality–no privilege can be claimed. (The emails that were cc’d to Todd cannot be the basis of spousal privilege since they were sent to others.)

The Fifth Amendment protects citizens against self-incrimination or having to give evidence against yourself. This investigation is about Sarah’s abuse of power. Todd could not claim the 5th for Sarah. Todd could claim the 5th for himself if there was a possibility of self-incrimination. And, judging by the way this story keeps unfolding, that might well happen!

12092008

mimi(23:46:34) :

Greetings from Wisconsin – I am so sorry for you that she is there. Just how much sage do you have to burn after she leaves?
I cannot watch any more of the palin interviews and think they are a big waste of time since no one wants to ask her much in the line of real questions and after the gibson interview mc cain isn’t letting her out of his sight. No more solo performances for cruella.
So, my solution is – just have her go on “Are you Smarter than a Fifth Grader”. If she wins she can be vp. If not she has to drop out of sight.
Seriously – we still need to get the vote out in force. Today I had a talk with my hairdresser while getting my hair done. She said she didn’t know who she would vote for as she hadn’t been paying attention. I told her about palin and the mc cain agenda and then contrasted Obama. She said she was registered and for sure she would go vote. So, one can make two and two can make four and so on.
I have great fear of the election being stolen again. That cannot happen if there is a massive vote for obama.
Also, the republicans are calling people in Wisconsin, particularly retired military personelle and offering to send them absentee ballots. Sounds fishy to me and to the people reporting it who no way will vote for mc cain.
Keep up your rally efforts. You can put a sign in your town that says No to Palin and sign my name and state. Maybe other people will offer the same. I would like to see the whole town plastered.
Good luck with the investigation – the whole world is watching!

@ Proud2B – I completely echo your sentiments about AKM and this blog. thank you, AKM – you have created a truly amazing thing here, and it’s down to your tenacity, bravery, intelligence and talent. you’re a great and funny writer, and good for you for putting that talent to such good use.🙂

also – about ‘the rest of the world’ – unfortunately over here in the European Union we are affected by America, too. especially when it comes to deciding to wage war and get the allied troops out there with ya..😦. it’s true that George Dubya was always regarded as a joke over here – but we also learned he’s a very dangerous joke, and the very idea of the hawkish neocons continuing to wield power (and surely they’ll wield it more than ever, with the likes of McCain and Palin in office?) is utterly terrifying even to us, thousands of miles away*. htttp://www.englandforobama.com

(*sadly I can’t see America from here, though, so that makes me no expert on foreign policy)

13092008

Blaster Commando Palin(03:16:14) :

AKMuckraker – I just want to thank you from the soles of my feet to the top of my head for the fine job you are doing! Your writing is wise, witty and especially informative. Keep on keepin’ on…

Hello from red-state Alabama, where nothing I do can make much difference. I’ve enjoyed reading here this morning and feel much more hopeful about the election. Just wanted to chime in to say, I’m betting Lyda Green signing those subpoena authorizations will release enough endorphins into her system to make her cancer-free for the rest of her life.

What’s the bigger picture? While We bicker and debate the merits or demerits of Obama and Palin, something bigger is taking place behind the scenes of the geo-politcal stage. For an astrological look at Pakistan, Russia, US, Venezuela and the ramp up to WWIII, go to http://www.robertphoenix.com

13092008

Political Amazon(11:20:40) :

[[Whoopi asked John McCain if she needed to worry about being a slave, since he said he wanted to change some things in our Constitution. I have this on my mind as well, since I am an African American. With Palin being tied to the AIP, and we know what their views are.]]

I think her support of dominionists (Christian Reconstructionists) is far more worrisome. The man considered the “Father of Christian Reconstructionism,” Rushdooney, believed in slavery, was racist and antisemitic. To no one’s surprise, groups like Christian Identity have glommed onto Rushdooney’s opinions and used them as justification for their violent racism and antisemeticism.

The other CR quotes largely center on their belief that Old Testament Law should be the law of America. When you consider that the Old Testament is not for sissies and advocates, among other things, execution of women who are married without an intact hymen, gays, and rebellious teenagers, and realize these CR nutballs are quite serious, and have already made great progress in that regard, it should make you even more worried about Sarah Palin than you are now.

Here are those Rushdooney quotes:

——–
——–

All religions segregate also…every religion asserts an order of truth and every other order is regarded as a lie.”

The background of the Negro culture is voodoo and magic; and the purposes the magic are control and power over God, man, nature and society. Voodoo and magic was the religion and life of America’s Negro.

But integration and equality are myths; they disguise a new segregation and a new equality…Every social order institutes its own program of separation or segregation. A particular faith and morality is given privileged status and all else is separated for progressive elimination.

All men are NOT created equal before God; the facts of heaven and hell, election and reprobation make clear that they are not equal. Moreover, an employer has aproperty rights to prefer whom he will in terms of “color” creed, race or national origin.

The matriarchal society is thus decadent or broken society. The strongly matriarchal character of Negro life is due to the moral failure of Negro men, their failure to be responsible, to support the family, or to provide authority. The same is true of American Indian tribes which are also matriarchal today.”

Segregation or separation is thus a basic principle of Biblical law with respect to religion and morality. Every attempt to destroy this principle is an effort to reduce society to its lowest common denominator. Toleration is the excuse under which this levelling is undertaken, but the concept of toleration conceals a radical intolerance. In the name of toleration, the believer is asked to associate on a common level of total acceptance with the atheist, the pervert, the criminal, and the adherents of other religions as though no differences existed.

The (Biblical) Law here is humane and also unsentimental. It recognizes that some people are by nature slaves and will always be so. It both requires that they be dealt with in a godly manner and also that the slave recognizes his position and accepts it with grace.”

A contrary development is increasingly in evidence in the Western world, and especially in the United States, i.e., the development by systematic indoctrination of a bad conscience. The political cultivation of guilt is a central means to power, for guilty men are slaves; their conscience is in bondage, and hence they are easily made objects of control. Guilt is thus systematically taught for purposes of control. Several instances can be cited readily. For example, the white man is being systematically indoctrinated into believing that he is guilty of enslaving and abusing the Negro. Granted that some Negroes were mistreated as slaves, the fact still remains that nowhere in all history or in the world today has the Negro been better off. The life expectancy of the Negro increased when he was transported to America. He was not taken from freedom into slavery, but from a vicious slavery to degenerate chiefs to a generally benevolent slavery in the United States. There is not the slightest evidence that any American Negro had ever lived in a “free society” in Africa; even the idea did not exist in Africa. The move from Africa to America was a vast increase of freedom for the Negro, materially and spiritually as well as personally. The Negroes were sold from a harsh slavery into a milder one. Slavery was basic to the African way of life, to the point that slaves were the actual money of the African economy. Elsewhere, gold and silver served as money; in Africa, it was slaves….
The private ownership of slave labor in the American South has been the subject of extensive distortion. The Negroes were slaves to their tribal heads in Africa, or prisoner-slaves of other tribes. The monetary unit in black Africa was man, the slave. The Negro moved from an especially harsh slavery, which included cannibalism, to a milder form. Much is said about the horrors of the slave ships, many of which were very bad, but it is important to remember that slaves were valuable cargo and hence property normally handled with consideration. A Canadian legislative commission member in 1847 reported that the Irish immigrants were being transported on ships loaded with twice as many passengers as the ship should hold, huddled down between decks, with too little food and water, and in conditions “as bad as the slave trade.” The condition of the Irish immigrants on arrival was far worse than that of slaves: they had no master to feed and clothe them or to provide shelter. The Irish moved from semi-slavery in Ireland to freedom in America only a few years before the Negro gained emancipation. After a century and a quarter, or less, the Irish are a leading power in the United States, and the Negroes remain on the lowest strata. The basic difference between the Irish and the Negro has not been color: it has been character. The Negroes demand more aid, i.e., more slavery and slave-care, and dwell on their sufferings. The Irish have instead looked to the present and future and helped shape America. It is a significant difference that cannot be explained altogether by color or environment. The Chinese also came to the United States under very difficult circumstances and similarly overcame them.

The burden of the law is thus against inter-religious, inter-racial, and inter-cultural marriages, in that they normally go against the very community which marriage is designed to establish.
Unequal yoking means more than marriage. In society at large it means the enforced integration of various elements which are not congenial. Unequal yoking is in no realm productive of harmony; rather, it aggravates the differences and delays the growth of the different elements toward a Christian harmony and association.

*************
The false witness born during World War II with respect to Germany is especially notable and revealing. The charge is repeatedly made that six million innocent Jews were slain by the Nazis, and the figure–and even larger figures–is now entrenched in the history books. Poncins, in summarizing the studies of the French Socialist, Paul Rassinier, himself a prisoner in Buchenwald, states: Rassinier reached the conclusion that the number of Jews who died after deportation is approximately 1,200,000 and this figure, he tells us, has finally been accepted as valid by the Centre Mondial de Documentation Juive Contemporaine. Likewise he notes that Paul Hilberg, in his study of the same problem, reached a total of 896,292 victims.
Very many of these people died of epidemics; many were executed. We will return to this matter again….
Let us examine again the mass murders of World War II, and the background of false witness during World War I and later. Life had become so cheap and meaningless to these heads of state and their camp followers that a murder or two meant nothing. Likewise, a generation schooled to violence in motion pictures, radio, literature, and press could not be expected to react to a murder or two. The result was a desperately twisted mentality which could only appreciate evil as evil on a massive scale. Did the Nazis actually execute many thousands, tens, or hundred thousands of Jews? Men to whom such murders were nothing had to blow up the figure to millions. Did the doctor perform a number of experiments on living men and women? A few sterilized women and a few castrated men and their horrified tears and grief are not enough to stir the sick and jaded tastes of modern man: make him guilty of performing 17,000 such operations. The evils were all too real: even greater is the evil of bearing false witness concerning them, because that false witness will produce an even more vicious reality in the next upheaval. Men are now “reconciled” to a world where millions are murdered, or are said to be murdered. What will be required in the way of action and propaganda next time?

***************
Postmillenialism is the belief that Christ, with His coming, His atonement, and His continuing regenerative power in those whom He calls, creates in His redeemed people a force for the reconquest of all things. The dominion that Adam first received and then lost by his fall will be restored to redeemed man. God’s people will then have a long reign over the entire earth, after which, when all enemies have been put under Christ’s feet, the end shall come, and the last enemy, death, will be destroyed.

*************
Non-Christian thought, when orientated to the future, faces a double penalty. First, it is past bound. The “civil rights” revolution, for example, has only the vaguest sense of the burdens of responsibility, which any person thinking in terms of reality and the future needs to have. Instead, the “civil rights” revolutionists speak endlessly of past evils, not merely real or imagined evils of their own experiencing, but all evils which they believe their ancestors suffered. Similarly, some labor union men, and American Indians, dwell endlessly on past history rather than present reality. This inability to live in the present means a radical incapacity for coping with the future.

Chip Berlet is a very prominent researcher on Christian Reconstructionists (dominionists–the name comes from the idea that Christians are to take dominion over the planet), and I have profound respect for him. The other researchers on The Public Eye website that I am familiar with and would recommend are Sara Diamond and Fred Clarkson.

This article is must-read. There will be no “fact-check” problems with Berlet, Diamond or Clarkson. They are old-school researchers, and their research is pristine.

If they write or say it, you can take it to the bank.

13092008

LibertyLover(12:09:25) :

DownInMississippi aka Jeep Pike (23:20:21) :

Thanks so much for explaining that. As much as I think that Todd Palin being compelled to testify would make for some very interesting theatre, I wondered about that aspect of it.

13092008

harddriller(13:46:33) :

You are like a Christmas Turkey “full of shit”

13092008

mindlass(13:48:07) :

You Obama people are idiots. He cares nothing for you or your welfare. You’re just socialist reactionaries who hate the USA but wouldn’t ever live anywhere else.

13092008

harddriller(13:49:11) :

I love lookin at your dumb ass blog,the more dumb shit you post the more votes Palin gets,hahahahahah

Why does this feel a little like the 1972 election campaign and the Watergate break-in and cover-up? I hope it doesn’t have the same results and we find out the truth years later…. :o(

13092008

fogcitygal(17:43:59) :

I should have said, good work Branchflower!!!!

I hope you can come up with some more stuff. I bet Sarah Palin has plenty to hide!

13092008

LTBL(19:22:08) :

Something I saw mentioned in her plea to have the special committee look into Troopergate (the one filed by the McCain lawyer) was that she didn’t find out that Wooten was disciplined (for 5 days) until 2008. She specifically says that under the former governor those personell records were private?

So does that mean they now aren’t private or did she just admit again to breaking privacy laws?

When we first heard about Palin selection to run with McCain, we just happened to be on our way to meet my husband’s brother, who lives in Alaska! When we told him the news he just laughed, said that joke had been all over the internet. It took him awhile to accept we were telling the truth

Several questions….do you know if the rally, Alaskan women reject Palin was aired by any major network (ABC, NBC, PBS, etc)

I also was reading about the investigation being conducted unofficially by a private citizen. He was able to get a lot of emails and many he could not get.
My question though is, many of the emails had a cc to her husband. Is this common practice in Alaska or anywhere else?

Thanks…

15092008

JNagarya(07:10:28) :

“Attention, Alaskan Republicans: IT’S NOT THE CRIME. IT’S THE COVER-UP!”

Attention, Alaskan Republicans: IT’S BOTH THE CRIME AND THE COVER-UP!

“Putting lipstick on a Cheney!”

“Those aren’t earrings! Those are earmarks!”

15092008

Retired USAF Vet(07:11:43) :

Thanks for the update — it would be easier to keep nutjobs from getting in line to the White House if they weren’t elected to office in the first place – but that would be spilled milk at this point.

Thanks for keeping the bright white lights on her scary butt!!

A VET

Good job, Branchflower!
Sometimes, it’s not the crime but the cover-up that brings these jerks down!
Keep up the pressure, Alaskans! The lower 48 is rooting for you!
(not to mention, we are desperately counting on you to save us all from that nut-job getting anywhere near the White House!)

15092008

JNagarya(07:23:59) :

“mindlass (13:48:07) :

“You Obama people are idiots. He cares nothing for you or your welfare. You’re just socialist reactionaries who hate the USA but wouldn’t ever live anywhere else.”

Sarah Palin is too close to the Ruskies for my comfort. What is the real nature of her touted foreign policy experience? Russian Commie agent?